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nature definition

na·ture (c̸hər)

noun

  1. the essential character of a thing; quality or qualities that make something what it is; essence
  2. inborn character; innate disposition; inherent tendencies of a person
  3. the vital functions, forces, and activities of the organs: often used as a euphemism
  4. kind; sort; type things of that nature
  5. any or all of the instincts, desires, appetites, drives, etc. of a person or animal
  6. what is regarded as normal or acceptable behavior
  7. the sum total of all things in time and space; the entire physical universe
  8. the power, force, principle, etc. that seems to regulate the physical universe: often personified, sometimes as Mother Nature
  9. the primitive state of man
  10. a simple way of life close to or in the outdoors
  11. natural scenery, including the plants and animals that are part of it
  12. Archaic affectionate or kindly feeling
  13. Theol. the state of humanity viewed hypothetically as unredeemed by grace

Etymology: OFr < L natura < natus, born, produced: see genus

nature Idioms

by nature

naturally; inherently

in a state of nature

  1. completely naked
  2. not cultivated or tamed; wild
  3. uncivilized

of the nature of

or in the nature of
having the essential character of; like

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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