ˈneɪtʃə n. 1 a thing's or person's
innate or
essential qualities or
character (not in
their nature to be
cruel; is
the nature of
iron to rust). 2 (often Nature) a the
physical power causing
all the
phenomena of the
material world (Nature is the
best physician). b
these phenomena, including plants, animals,
landscape, etc. (nature gives
him comfort). 3 a kind,
sort, or
class (things of
this nature). 4 =
human nature. 5 a a specified
element of human character (the
rational nature;
our animal nature). b a
person of a specified character (even
strong natures quail). 6 a an
uncultivated or
wild area,
condition,
community, etc. b the
countryside,
esp.
when picturesque. 7
inherent impulses determining character or
action. 8
heredity as an
influence on or
determinant of
personality (opp. NURTURE). 9 a
living thing's
vital functions or
needs (such a diet will
not support nature). øagainst nature
unnatural;
immoral.
against (or
contrary to) nature
miraculous; miraculously.
back to nature returning to a pre-civilized or
natural state. by nature innately.
from nature Art using natural objects as models. human nature
general human characteristics, feelings, etc. in nature 1
actually existing. 2
anywhere; at all. in (or of) the nature of characteristically resembling or belonging to the class of (the
answer was in the nature of an excuse). in a state of nature 1 in an
uncivilized or uncultivated state. 2
totally naked. 3 in an
unregenerate state.
law of nature = natural law 2. nature
cure =
NATUROPATHY. nature-printing a
method of producing a
print of
leaves etc. by
pressing them on a prepared
plate. nature
reserve a tract of
land managed so as to
preserve its flora,
fauna, physical features, etc. nature
study the
practical study of
plant and animal
life etc. as a school
subject. nature
trail a signposted
path through the countryside designed to
draw attention to natural phenomena. [ME f. OF f. L natura f. nasci natbe born]
