# traditionalist

/tɹəˈdɪʃənəɫɪst/ (US) · /tɹɐdˈɪʃənəlˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/traditionalist
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a person who prefers the old ways of doing things and is not interested in new or modern ideas. You use this to describe someone who values history and tradition.

For teachers: a person who adheres to established customs, beliefs, or practices rather than embracing modern or progressive changes. Often used in political or cultural contexts to describe those who resist innovation.

## Examples

- The traditionalist prefers wearing suits to casual clothes.
- As a traditionalist, he argued that the new digital curriculum would undermine the core values of the school.
- While the younger generation embraced the city's rapid gentrification, the local traditionalist groups fought to preserve the historic architecture of the neighborhood.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.