Nudism vs Naturism: Is There a Difference?
By Reto Pascal Wyss, NudistMap · Updated
Nudism and naturism describe the same practice: being nude in a social, non-sexual setting such as a beach, club or sauna. Nudism is the older, mostly American word; naturism is the term used by the international federations and in Europe, and it carries a slightly broader meaning of living in harmony with nature.
Where do the two words come from?
Naturisme was coined in French in the 18th century for a back-to-nature philosophy and attached to nude living in the 1920s. The International Naturist Federation, founded in 1953, adopted it and in 1974 defined naturism as "a way of life in harmony with nature, characterised by the practice of communal nudity, with the intention of encouraging self-respect, respect for others and for the environment".
Nudism came into English in the 1920s and 30s with the first American clubs. The American Sunbathing Association of 1931 used it, and its successor AANR still speaks of nude recreation and nudist clubs. In Germany the word is FKK, in Spanish naturismo, in French naturisme.
Is there any real difference?
Some people in the movement draw a line, and it is worth knowing even if most dictionaries do not:
- Naturism is often said to include an ethic: respect for the environment, simple living, body acceptance. Nudism is said to be just the nudity, as recreation.
- Nudists go to landed clubs and resorts; naturists are more associated with free beaches and nature. In practice resorts, campgrounds and beaches are used by the same people.
- Geography is the strongest predictor: in the United States you will hear nudist, in the UK, Europe, Australia and the federations naturist.
Which word should I use?
Either, and the people you meet will not correct you. NudistMap uses both on purpose: the site is named for the word most people search, while the place types follow the labels used on signs and by federations (naturist campground, naturist beach). What matters is the shared rule behind both words: nudity here is social and non-sexual, and etiquette is the same everywhere.
The full set of terms is in the glossary.
Frequently asked questions
Is a nudist the same as a naturist?
Yes in everyday use. Both describe someone who enjoys non-sexual nudity in company. Some naturists add an environmental or lifestyle meaning to their word.
Is naturism a religion or philosophy?
Neither in the formal sense. The federations describe it as a way of life with a code of respect; it has no doctrine, and members hold every kind of belief.
What is a textile?
Naturist slang for a clothed person, or for the clothed part of a beach or campsite. It is descriptive, not an insult.
What about clothing optional?
A rule for a place, not a word for a person: clothing optional means you may be nude but do not have to be. Many public nude beaches and some resorts work this way.