Definition

A person who believes in or supports the idea that universals or abstract concepts do not have an independent existence but only exist as names or labels.

Example

The nominalist argued that categories like 'redness' only exist as terms we use, not as real entities.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a nominalist?

I think so, but I'm not entirely sure what it means.

It's someone who believes that universals are just names, not real things.

That makes sense! I guess it’s a different way of looking at reality.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nominalist → It is formed from "nominalis" (from Latin, meaning pertaining to names) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). The term nominalist refers to someone who believes that universals or abstract concepts are merely names without any corresponding reality.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nominalis' meaning 'pertaining to names' — a nominalist is someone who focuses on names and labels rather than the actual existence of the concepts they represent.

Visually Confused Words