ecotourism

1 of 2

noun (1)

eco·​tour·​ism ˌē-kō-ˈtu̇r-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce ecotourism (audio)
ˌe-kō-
: the practice of touring natural habitats in a manner meant to minimize ecological impact
ecotour
ˈē-kō-ˌtu̇r How to pronounce ecotourism (audio) ˈe-kō- How to pronounce ecotourism (audio)
noun
ecotourist
ˌē-kō-ˈtu̇r-ist How to pronounce ecotourism (audio)
ˌe-kō-
noun

ecotour

2 of 2

noun (2)

eco·​tour ˈēkə How to pronounce ecotour (audio)
ˈekə+
: a trip that follows the principles of ecotourism

Examples of ecotourism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
All those species of birds have become an important part of a growing ecotourism industry. — Anderson Cooper, CBS News, 3 May 2026 In the last five years or so, Kimpton has placed a particular emphasis on ecotourism when booking lodging. — Nathan Diller, USA Today, 30 June 2026 Today, the birds’ presence both promotes ecotourism and emphasizes the importance of conserving ecosystems. — Devika Rao, TheWeek, 22 May 2026 In addition to sustainability, Miches is also focused on ecotourism and adventure tourism. — Condé Nast Traveler, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ecotourism

Word History

Etymology

Noun (2)

ec- entry 2 + tour entry 1

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1980, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1973, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ecotourism was in 1973

Rhymes for ecotourism

See All Rhymes for ecotourism

Browse Nearby Words

ecotour
ecotourism
ecotoxicology
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ecotourism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ecotourism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on ecotourism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ecotourism

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