Philosopher

/fɪˈlɒsəfə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who seeks wisdom or enlightenment, particularly in the study of fundamental questions regarding existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.

Socrates is often regarded as one of the greatest philosophers of all time.

A person who engages in the practice of philosophy and reflects on the nature of reality and human existence.

As a philosopher, she spent countless hours pondering the meaning of life.

A person who uses reason and argument to discover the truths about the world.

The philosopher argued that the pursuit of happiness should be a central goal of human life.

A person who maintains a particular worldview or belief system based on philosophical principles.

As a philosopher, he believed that ethical behavior was rooted in reason and not merely in social conventions.

Etymology

From Old French 'philosophe', from Latin 'philosophus', from Greek 'philosophos' meaning 'lover of wisdom'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

armchair philosopher

A person who offers opinions on philosophical topics without engaging in actual philosophy.

philosopher's stone

A mythical substance said to be capable of turning base metals into gold, symbolizing the ultimate achievement in alchemy.

Related Words

philosophy

The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.

logic

The systematic study of valid rules of inference and correct reasoning.

ethics

The moral principles governing or influencing conduct.

Slang Meanings

Deep thinker

Don't just be an armchair philosopher; take action on your ideas.

Mind-bender

That idea is a real mind-bender, worthy of a philosopher's discussion.