environmentalist
UK: ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentəlɪst | US: ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentəlɪst
n. a person who is concerned with or advocates for the protection of the natural environment
n. an expert in environmental science or policy
The word "environmentalist" traces back to the French "environner" (to surround), derived from "environ" (surroundings). The suffix "-ment" forms nouns indicating a state or condition (e.g., "government"), while "-al" converts it into an adjective. The suffix "-ist" denotes a person associated with a cause or profession (e.g., "artist"). Thus, "environmentalist" literally means "a person concerned with the surroundings," evolving to specifically address ecological protection.
The environmentalist campaigned against deforestation in the Amazon.
She became an environmentalist after witnessing the effects of pollution on marine life.
Many environmentalists advocate for renewable energy solutions.
The conference brought together scientists, policymakers, and environmentalists.
His work as an environmentalist earned him international recognition.