pro-rationalist
|pro-ra-tion-al-ist|
🇺🇸
/proʊ-ˈræʃənəlɪst/
🇬🇧
/prəʊ-ˈræʃ(ə)nəlɪst/
for reason / supporting rationalism
Etymology
'pro-rationalist' is formed in modern English by prefixing 'pro-' to 'rationalist'. 'pro-' comes from Latin 'pro' meaning 'for' or 'forward', and 'rationalist' derives from 'rational' (from Latin 'rationalis', from 'ratio') plus the agentive suffix '-ist'.
'rational' comes from Latin 'ratio' (reason) → Late Latin 'rationalis' → Old French/Medieval Latin influences → English 'rational' (16th c.) → 'rationalism' (17th–18th c.) → 'rationalist' (person, 18th–19th c.). The compound 'pro-rationalist' is a modern English formation using the prefix 'pro-'.
Originally elements meant 'for' (pro-) and 'of reason' (rational/ratio); combined in modern usage the term specifically labels individuals or positions that endorse rationalism or reasoned, evidence-based approaches.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who supports or advocates rationalism, reason, and evidence-based argument; someone 'for' rationalist principles.
She is a pro-rationalist who argues for policy based on evidence and reason.
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Adjective 1
favoring or supporting rationalism, reason, and evidence-based approaches; describing a stance, position, or argument.
The committee adopted a pro-rationalist stance, prioritizing data and critical analysis.
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Last updated: 2025/11/18 10:43