noun
philosopher
fih-LOS-uh-fuh
noun
1
A person who studies or writes about fundamental questions of existence, knowledge, ethics, and reason.
"Socrates is often called the founder of Western philosophy as a philosopher."
"The philosopher argued that free will is largely an illusion."
2
A person who approaches life's problems calmly and rationally, as if guided by philosophical wisdom.
"Despite losing his job, he took it like a philosopher and moved on."
How to Use Philosopher
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who studies or thinks deeply about big questions like existence, knowledge, and morality — or, more loosely, someone who stays calm and thoughtful under pressure.
Common pairings
ancient philosopher
moral philosopher
philosopher and writer
Word Forms
philosophers plural
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Socrates is often called the founder of Western philosophy as a _____.
Etymology
From Greek philosophos, literally "lover of wisdom," a term said to have been first used by Pythagoras to describe himself rather than claim to be wise.