Scientists: meaning, definitions and examples

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scientists

 

[ˈsaɪəntɪsts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

researchers

Scientists are people who are trained in a particular field of science and who work in laboratories or in the field to conduct experiments, make observations, and analyze data to expand our understanding of the world.

Synonyms

academics, researchers, scholars.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scientists

Use this word to refer to professionals who study natural sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences, usually through empirical or experimental methods.

  • Scientists are working hard to develop a vaccine for the new virus.
  • The climate scientists provided new evidence on global warming.
researchers

Use this word to describe people who conduct detailed study and investigation into a specific field or topic. This can apply to various domains, including social sciences, health sciences, and technology.

  • Researchers at the lab are developing new treatments for cancer.
  • The project required a team of researchers to gather data from different countries.
scholars

Use this word to describe individuals engaged in deep study and learning, often in the humanities and social sciences. 'Scholars' frequently implies a high level of expertise and contribution to their field.

  • He is a renowned scholar in medieval literature.
  • Many scholars have debated the meaning of the ancient texts.
academics

Use this word to refer to individuals who work in educational institutions such as universities or colleges, focusing primarily on teaching and scholarly work.

  • Academics often publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals.
  • The conference was attended by several well-known academics.

Examples of usage

  • Scientists are constantly pushing the boundaries of knowledge through their research.
  • Many scientists dedicate their lives to studying complex phenomena.
  • Without scientists, many technological advancements would not have been possible.
Context #2 | Noun

innovators

Scientists are also known for their role in innovation, developing new technologies, medicines, and solutions to global challenges.

Synonyms

innovators, inventors, pioneers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scientists

Used to refer to individuals who conduct systematic and methodical research in order to discover and understand various aspects of the natural world. They often work in fields like biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences.

  • The scientists conducted experiments to find a cure for the new disease.
  • Scientists have discovered a new planet in our solar system.
innovators

Refers to people who introduce new ideas, methods, or products. Innovators often look for creative solutions to existing problems and strive to make things better and more efficient.

  • Innovators in the tech industry are constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
  • She is an innovator who transformed the way we think about renewable energy.
inventors

Describes people who create or design something that has never existed before. Inventors focus on bringing new devices, methods, or processes into existence.

  • Thomas Edison was one of the greatest inventors of all time.
  • The inventor filed a patent for his groundbreaking new device.
pioneers

Typically used for individuals who are among the first to explore or develop new areas of knowledge or technology. Pioneers are known for their bravery and willingness to take on new challenges.

  • The Wright brothers were pioneers in the field of aviation.
  • She is a pioneer in the field of genetic research.

Examples of usage

  • Scientists play a crucial role in driving technological progress.
  • The work of scientists has led to breakthroughs in various fields.
  • Many scientists are passionate about finding solutions to pressing issues.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'scientist' was first commonly used in the 19th century, described by historian William Whewell as someone who engages in systematic studying.
  • Before 'scientist' became a popular term, many practitioners of science were referred to as 'natural philosophers.'
  • The scientific method, a key component of modern science, was developed in the 16th and 17th centuries by thinkers like Galileo and Francis Bacon.

Pop Culture

  • Many scientists have been popularized through films and TV, with characters like Doc Brown from 'Back to the Future' showcasing eccentric and brilliant personas.
  • Cartoons often depict scientists as quirky characters, emphasizing their creativity and tendency to wear lab coats and glasses.
  • The portrayal of scientists in media has led to both admiration and misunderstanding, as seen in comedies like 'The Big Bang Theory' where scientific jargon is humorously simplified.

Science

  • Scientists often work in various fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science, each tackling different challenges.
  • Many advancements, from vaccines to renewable energy, are the direct result of scientific research and collaboration among diverse scientists.
  • Interdisciplinary fields have emerged, such as biochemistry and astrobiology, proving that modern scientists can work at the intersections of traditional disciplines.

Psychology

  • Studies have shown that the perception of scientists as 'geeks' or 'nerds' can discourage young people from pursuing careers in science.
  • The 'stereotype threat' can affect scientists' performance, indicating that identity and societal expectations play a role in educational outcomes.
  • Positive role models in science can help combat stereotypes and inspire more diversity in scientific fields.

Education

  • Inquiry-based learning has become a popular method in classrooms, empowering students to think like scientists through hands-on experiments.
  • Science fairs and competitions encourage students to develop their own projects, mimicking the work of professional scientists.
  • The integration of technology in science education has transformed the way students engage with scientific concepts, enhancing their learning experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "scientists" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cientistas

🇮🇳 वैज्ञानिकों

🇩🇪 Wissenschaftler

🇮🇩 ilmuwan

🇺🇦 вчені

🇵🇱 naukowcy

🇯🇵 科学者

🇫🇷 scientifiques

🇪🇸 científicos

🇹🇷 bilim insanları

🇰🇷 과학자들

🇸🇦 علماء

🇨🇿 vědci

🇸🇰 vedci

🇨🇳 科学家

🇸🇮 znanstveniki

🇮🇸 vísindamenn

🇰🇿 ғалымдар

🇬🇪 მეცნიერები

🇦🇿 alimlər

🇲🇽 científicos

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,230, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.