human nature

noun

: the nature of humans

especially : the fundamental dispositions and traits of humans

Examples of human nature in a Sentence

You can't change human nature.

Recent Examples on the Web

The team-building process of the NFL sometimes clashes with the self-preservation process of human nature. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 7 Aug. 2026

Over a career spanning six decades, Herzog has become one of the most influential figures in international cinema, working on around 80 films often alighting on the subjects of obsession, extreme situations and the contradictions of human nature. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 7 Aug. 2026

While personalities are, of course, more nuanced, this measure has been used to identify associations between health markers and innate human nature. — Refractor, 27 July 2026

Is an ethical being unburdened by human nature going to act better than a human, or worse? — John Werner, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for human nature

• legislature
• nomenclature

Kids Definition

human nature

noun

: the nature of human beings

especially : the ways of thinking, acting, and reacting that are common to most or all human beings or that are learned in social situations