nature

noun

na·ture | \ ˈnā-chər

Definition of nature

1a : the inherent character or basic constitution (see constitution sense 2) of a person or thing : essence the nature of the controversy

b : disposition, temperament it was his nature to look after others— F. A. Swinnerton her romantic nature

2a : a creative and controlling force in the universe

b : an inner force (such as instinct, appetite, desire) or the sum of such forces in an individual

3 : a kind or class usually distinguished by fundamental or essential characteristics documents of a confidential nature acts of a ceremonial nature

4 : the physical constitution or drives of an organism especially : an excretory organ or function —used in phrases like the call of nature

5 : a spontaneous attitude (as of generosity)

6 : the external world in its entirety

7a : humankind's original or natural condition

b : a simplified mode of life resembling this condition escape from civilization and get back to nature

8 : the genetically controlled qualities of an organism nature … modified by nurture— E. G. Conklin

9 : natural scenery enjoyed the beauties of nature

Synonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about nature

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Choose the Right Synonym for nature

type, kind, sort, nature, description, character mean a number of individuals thought of as a group because of a common quality or qualities. type may suggest strong and clearly marked similarity throughout the items included so that each is typical of the group. one of three basic body types kind may suggest natural grouping. a zoo seemingly having animals of every kind sort often suggests some disparagement. the sort of newspaper dealing in sensational stories nature may imply inherent, essential resemblance rather than obvious or superficial likenesses. two problems of a similar nature description implies a group marked by agreement in all details belonging to a type as described or defined. not all acts of that description are actually illegal character implies a group marked by distinctive likenesses peculiar to the type. research on the subject so far has been of an elementary character

Examples of nature in a Sentence

He devoted himself to the study of nature. That is a color not found in nature. Hunger is nature's way of telling you to eat. Gravity is one of the basic laws of nature. She's very competitive by nature.

Recent Examples on the Web

Acer Note the woodgrain-like panel on top of the ConceptD 500, which brings a suggestion of nature to a highly synthetic product. — Melissa Riofrio, PCWorld, "Sorry, gamers: Acer's ConceptD PCs are powerful, quiet, and cool, but made for creators," 12 Apr. 2019 But for competition, nature is far too unpredictable. — Kevin Dupzyk, Popular Mechanics, "The Biggest Ice-Climbing Wall in American History," 23 Feb. 2019 Exploring whatever bit of nature is around you is exercise in disguise and isn't that the best kind?! — Hannah Deely, Redbook, "5 Ways to Balance Your Life With the Swedish Concept of Lagom," 2 Oct. 2018 What’s more, Nordic walking is by nature a low-impact sport, which makes this an ideal cross-training option for runners. — Karen Asp, SELF, "Nordic Walking Is My Favorite Form of Cardio—Here’s Why You Should Try It," 10 Feb. 2019 This framework weds three of nature’s fundamental forces — the strong, the weak and the electromagnetic — into a single entity. — Adam Hadhazy, Discover Magazine, "Scientists Hunt for A Seeming Paradox: A Magnet With Only One Pole," 13 Nov. 2018 Steinkamp’s radiant large-scale projections, which heighten and inflate natural imagery, question technology’s impact on perceptions of nature. — BostonGlobe.com, "The week ahead: music, theater, art, and more," 13 July 2018 However fleeting, flowers can lift your spirits and connect you to nature. — Lucia Tonelli, ELLE Decor, "How One Celebrity Florist Brings Flowers into the Home for Spring," 19 Mar. 2019 Amazon Studios has appeared more carefree in spending than its parent company, in part due to the nature of Hollywood. — Laura Stevens, WSJ, "Jeff Bezos’ Journey From Private Family Man to Tabloid Sensation," 10 Feb. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'nature.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.