nature

noun

US /ˈneɪtʃər/

Word Forms

singular	nature
plural	natures

1
uncountable the physical world including all living things as well as the land and the oceans
an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature in Alaska
Barone’s interest was in nature, wildlife, and birds.
Synonyms and related words
The natural world
nature
the environment
ecology
1. 1a
  the forces that control the physical world and life itself
  He’s always loved pitting his skills against the forces of nature.
  Synonyms and related words
  The natural world
  nature
  the environment
  ecology
2
countable/uncountable a basic quality or feature of something
nature of:
It’s the nature of plastic to melt under high temperatures.
They must understand the nature of our opposition to nuclear testing.
by its (very) nature:
Medical records, by their very nature, contain sensitive information.
true nature (=real features or qualities):
Dunston refused to reveal the true nature of her work.
in nature:
The role of the Board is only advisory in nature.
Synonyms and related words
Features and qualities
feature
quality
factor
1. 2a
  the basic character of a person or an animal
  The pony has a very gentle nature.
  by nature:
  Apes are curious by nature.
  in someone’s nature:
  It isn’t in my nature to be pushy or aggressive.
  someone’s better nature (=someone’s kindness):
  If we can appeal to Charlotte’s better nature we can work out a compromise.
  Synonyms and related words
  General words for a person’s character
  character
  personality
  identity
3
singular a particular type or class of thing
His behavior was inappropriate for a meeting of this nature.
in the nature of (=similar to):
The next consultation will be more in the nature of a public meeting than a formal inquiry.
Synonyms and related words
Categories and types
type
category
kind

phrases

in the nature of things

let nature take its course

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nature

nature