Nature
/ˈneɪtʃər/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe physical world and all its phenomena, especially those not made by humans.
/ˈneɪtʃər/
The phenomena of the physical world collectively, including plants, animals, the landscape, and other features and products of the earth, as opposed to humans or human creations.
The beauty of nature inspires artists and poets.
💡 Simply: Nature is everything around us that isn't man-made! Like trees, animals, mountains, and the weather.
👶 For kids: Nature is everything that lives and grows on Earth, like trees, animals, and the weather.
More Examples
We should strive to protect nature for future generations.
A walk in nature can be very relaxing.
How It's Used
"Scientists are studying the impact of climate change on nature."
"Conservation efforts aim to protect nature from pollution and habitat destruction."
The inherent character or fundamental qualities of something; its essential makeup.
/ˈneɪtʃər/
The essential qualities or characteristics of a person or thing.
It's in the nature of a dog to be loyal.
💡 Simply: Nature can also describe the kind of person or thing something is. Like, 'It's in her nature to be helpful' means that it is a part of her personality to be nice.
👶 For kids: Nature can also mean what someone or something is like, like if a cat's nature is to chase mice.
More Examples
The nature of the problem is complex and requires careful analysis.
Her nature is gentle and compassionate.
How It's Used
"It's in her nature to be kind and helpful."
"Exploring the nature of reality is a central theme in philosophy."
The fundamental character or qualities of a person.
/ˈneɪtʃər/
The inherent physical and mental constitution of a person.
He was true to his nature and always spoke his mind.
💡 Simply: It can also describe your personality or what you are naturally like. For instance, you might say someone has a gentle or adventurous nature.
👶 For kids: Sometimes nature means what someone is like inside, like if they are happy or sad a lot.
More Examples
Her kind nature made her a great friend.
They debated whether it was nature or nurture that shaped a person's character.
How It's Used
"She believed in the power of nature to heal and restore health."
"Understanding your nature can help you live a more fulfilling life."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Mother Nature
The personification of nature, especially as a life-giving and nurturing force.
"Mother Nature provides us with everything we need to survive."
second nature
An acquired habit or behavior that has become automatic.
"After years of practice, playing the piano is second nature to her."
From Old French *nature* and Latin *natura* ('birth, temperament, character, constitution'), derived from *natus*, past participle of *nasci* ('to be born').
Used in philosophical and scientific discourse since ancient times to discuss the essential properties of things.
Memory tip
Think of a beautiful forest or a vast ocean – that's nature!
Word Origin
"birth, temperament, constitution"