nature */*/*/

UK [ˈneɪtʃə(r)] / US [ˈneɪtʃər] noun
Word forms "nature":
singular nature plural natures

1)

a) [uncountable] the physical world including all living things as well as the land and the seas

an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature in Alaska

Barone's interest was in nature, wildlife, and birds.

b) the forces that control the physical world and life itself

He's always loved pitting his skills against the forces of nature.

See:

Mother Nature

2)

a) [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.

b) 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.

3) [singular] a particular type or class of thing

His behaviour was inappropriate for a meeting of this nature.

in the nature of (= similar to):

The consultation will be more in the nature of a public meeting than a formal enquiry.

•

- in the nature of things

- let nature take its course

See:

call II, second nature