behaviorist

noun

be·​hav·​ior·​ist bi-ˈhā-vyə-rist 

bē-

1

: a person who advocates or practices behaviorism

2

: a person who specializes in the study of behavior

an animal behaviorist

behaviorist adjective

Examples of behaviorist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If this doesn't help your can seek help from a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist to address the underlying causes. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2024

Animal behaviorists say that early socialization and positive interactions play crucial roles in building such harmonious relationships. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024

Many people know Isabella Rossellini as a legendary model and actress, but some aren't familiar with her second act as an animal behaviorist. —Megan Johnson, People.com, 24 Oct. 2024

Cohen spoke with people in the neighborhood and consulted with an animal behaviorist. —Peter Rubin, Longreads, 4 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1913, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

behaviorist

1 of 2 noun

be·​hav·​ior·​ist

variants or chiefly British behaviourist

-rəst 

1

: a person who advocates or practices behaviorism

2

: a person who specializes in the study of behavior

Animal behaviorists are often consulted regarding such problems as aggression, self-mutilation, food aversion and inappropriate urination or defecation.

—Tom Ewing, Dog Watch

behaviorist

2 of 2 adjective

: of or relating to behaviorism

behaviorist psychology