philosopher

UK: fɪˈlɒsəfə | US: fɪˈlɑːsəfər

Definition
  1. n. a person engaged or learned in philosophy, especially as an academic discipline

  2. n. a person who seeks wisdom or enlightenment through rational inquiry

Structure
philo <love>soph <wisdom>er <agent suffix>
Etymology

The word "philosopher" originates from Greek philosophos, combining philo- (love) and sophia (wisdom). The term was coined to describe someone who pursues wisdom rather than claiming to possess it outright. Over time, it evolved into Latin philosophus and Old French philosophe, before entering English as "philosopher." The morphemes reflect the core idea of loving wisdom as a lifelong pursuit.

Examples
  1. Socrates is often regarded as the greatest philosopher of ancient Greece.

  2. She approached problems like a true philosopher, questioning assumptions and seeking deeper truths.

  3. Modern philosophers continue to debate the nature of consciousness.

  4. The philosopher's writings influenced generations of thinkers.

  5. To be a philosopher, one must embrace curiosity and critical thinking.