Thinkers: meaning, definitions and examples

🧠

Add to dictionary

thinkers

[ˈθɪŋkərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

philosophy

People who engage in critical thinking, rational analysis, and contemplation.

Synonyms

intellectual, philosopher, scholar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
thinkers	Suitable for describing people who are known for their deep or original thoughts, often used in a general way to refer to anyone who engages in serious thinking. The company hired several innovative thinkers to help solve their problem Many great thinkers have contributed to the development of modern science
philosopher	This term is best used for someone who studies or writes about fundamental questions related to existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. Philosophy is their main field of interest or profession. Socrates is perhaps the most famous philosopher in history The book explores the ideas of several modern philosophers
intellectual	Typically used to describe someone who engages in or values complex mental activities, often in the fields of literature, philosophy, or academics. Can carry a neutral or sometimes slightly elitist connotation. She is considered one of the most prominent intellectuals of our time The debate was attended by many intellectuals interested in the subject of climate change
scholar	Appropriate for individuals who have a deep and extensive knowledge in a specific discipline, often academia or research. It generally signifies a formal and advanced level of expertise. She was recognized as a leading scholar in medieval literature The scholar spent years researching ancient Greek texts

Examples of usage

Great thinkers like Plato and Aristotle laid the foundation for Western philosophy.
Modern thinkers continue to challenge traditional beliefs and push the boundaries of knowledge.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

Individuals who are known for their intellectual pursuits and ideas.

Synonyms

intellectual, scholar, thought leader.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
thinkers	Used to describe people who engage in deep thinking or contemplation, often on abstract or philosophical topics. Great thinkers have shaped the course of history. Thinkers often challenge the status quo.
intellectual	Commonly used to describe someone who is well-educated and interested in activities that involve careful thinking and mental effort. Often used in academic or cultural discussions. She is an intellectual who loves debating philosophical questions. The conference attracted many intellectuals from around the world.
thought leader	Used in a business or professional context to describe someone who has innovative ideas and is recognized as an authority in their field. Often carries a positive connotation. She is a thought leader in the field of renewable energy. The seminar featured several industry thought leaders.
scholar	Refers to someone who has done advanced study in a particular field, often used in academic contexts. It implies a formal level of education or research. He is a renowned scholar in medieval history. The scholarship aims to support promising young scholars.

Examples of usage

She is considered one of the great thinkers of our time.
The conference brought together leading thinkers from various fields.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'thinker' comes from the Old English 'þencan,' meaning to conceive in the mind, reflecting the importance of mental processes.
The suffix '-er' indicates someone who performs an action, so a thinker is literally someone who thinks.
The concept of 'thinking' has evolved from basic problem-solving to include critical and creative reasoning in modern contexts.

Philosophy

Philosophers like Socrates and Descartes emphasized the importance of questioning and critical thinking as a foundation for knowledge.
Existentialists such as Jean-Paul Sartre discussed personal freedom and the responsibility of thinkers to create their own meaning in life.
In Eastern philosophy, thinkers like Confucius focused on ethics and social harmony, shaping many cultures' moral frameworks.

Psychology

The way thinkers approach problems can reveal different cognitive styles; some may be analytical, while others are more intuitive.
Research in cognitive psychology shows that diverse thinking styles can enhance problem-solving and creativity in groups.
The concept of 'fixed vs. growth mindset' by psychologist Carol Dweck highlights how people's beliefs about their thinking abilities can impact their success.

Education

The Socratic method in education encourages students to think critically by asking questions rather than just providing answers.
Project-based learning requires students to engage as thinkers, applying concepts to real-world problems and fostering collaboration.
Inquiry-based learning emphasizes the importance of curiosity and fostering an environment where students can explore their thoughts.

Pop Culture

Thinkers are often depicted in literature and film as heroes who challenge the status quo, like Sherlock Holmes or Tony Stark.
Popular media often celebrates innovators and disruptors, portraying thinkers as vital to progress in society.
Documentaries on influential figures, such as Steve Jobs or Marie Curie, illustrate how thinkers shape technology and science.

Translations

Translations of the word "thinkers" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pensadores

🇮🇳 विचारक

🇩🇪 Denker

🇮🇩 pemikir

🇺🇦 мислителі

🇵🇱 myśliciele

🇯🇵 思想家

🇫🇷 penseurs

🇪🇸 pensadores

🇹🇷 düşünürler

🇰🇷 사상가

🇸🇦 المفكرين

🇨🇿 myslitelé

🇸🇰 myslitelia

🇨🇳 思想家

🇸🇮 misleci

🇮🇸 hugsuðir

🇰🇿 ойшылдар

🇬🇪 მოაზროვნეები

🇦🇿 düşünənlər

🇲🇽 pensadores

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,086 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
9083 automotive
9084 insulated
9085 competitor
9086 thinkers
9087 individuality
9088 grasped
9089 adhesion
...