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noun Uncommon

fundamentalist

Fundamentalist (noun) means a person who insists on a strict, literal interpretation of a religion's core texts. Example: “The documentary interviewed fundamentalists from several faiths.”

noun
1
A person who insists on a strict, literal interpretation of a religion's core texts.
"The documentary interviewed fundamentalists from several faiths."
2
An investor who bases decisions on a company's underlying financial data rather than market trends.
"As a fundamentalist, she studies earnings reports rather than stock charts."

How to use fundamentalist

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who takes a strict, back-to-basics approach — most often used of religion, sometimes of investing.

Word forms

fundamentalists plural

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The documentary interviewed _____ from several faiths.

Etymology

From fundamental + -ist, after a series of early-1900s pamphlets called "The Fundamentals."

· First attested 1900

Class of 1900 fundamentalist joined the language around 1900.
See the full Class of 1900 →

Rhymes for fundamentalist

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Frequently asked questions

What does “fundamentalist” mean?

The word “fundamentalist” means a person who insists on a strict, literal interpretation of a religion's core texts. In plain terms, someone who takes a strict, back-to-basics approach — most often used of religion, sometimes of investing.

How do you use “fundamentalist” in a sentence?

Here is “fundamentalist” used in a sentence: “The documentary interviewed fundamentalists from several faiths.”

What part of speech is “fundamentalist”?

“Fundamentalist” is a noun.

Where does the word “fundamentalist” come from?

The word “fundamentalist” dates back to around 1900. From fundamental + -ist, after a series of early-1900s pamphlets called "The Fundamentals.".

Is “fundamentalist” a common word?

“Fundamentalist” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “fundamentalist” have?

“Fundamentalist” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person who insists on a strict, literal interpretation of a religion's core texts.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial