nature
/ˈneɪ̯.t͡ʃəɹ/ noun A2- The way things are, the totality of all things in the physical universe and their order, especially the physical world in contrast to spiritual realms and flora and fauna as distinct from human conventions, art, and technology. · Nature doesn't lie.· The laws of nature are written in the language of mathematics.
- The essential or innate characteristics of a person or thing which will always tend to manifest, especially in contrast to specific contexts, reason, religious duty, upbringing, and personal pretense or effort. · It's not in my nature to steal.· You can't help feeling that way. It's human nature.
- The distinguishing characteristic of a person or thing, understood as its general class, sort, type, etc. · What was the nature of your relationship with the deceased?· The best medium might be petroleum, liquified gas, or something of that nature.
- The vital functions or strength of someone or something, especially (now dialect) as requiring nourishment or careful maintenance or (medicine) as a force of regeneration without special treatment.
- The need to urinate and defecate. · I hear the call of nature.
- Sexual desire.
- Spontaneous love, affection, or reverence, especially between parent and child.
Plural natures
From the library
“Never mind, Renée,” replied the marquise, with a look of tenderness that seemed out of keeping with her harsh dry features; but, however all other feelings may be withered in a woman’s nature, there is always one bright smiling spot in the desert of her heart, and that is the shrine of maternal love.
The Weasel refused, saying that he was by nature the enemy of all birds.
Change of habit cannot alter Nature.
The Dolphin replied, “Nay, my friend, blame not me, but Nature, which, while giving me the sovereignty of the sea, has quite denied me the power of living upon the land.”
Learn nature in real texts
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