Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

Thales

Proper noun

/ˈθeɪ.liːz/

Definition

An ancient Greek philosopher known as one of the first philosophers in Western history.

Examples

Thales believed that everything in the universe was composed of water.
Many historians refer to Thales as the first philosopher due to his approach to understanding the world around him.

Meaning

Thales is often credited with founding the Ionic school of natural philosophy and is notable for his belief that water is the fundamental principle of all matter.