# nature

/ˈneɪtʃɝ/ (US) · /nˈeɪtʃɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nature
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. the physical world

noun · CEFR A2

the physical world, including plants, animals, mountains, and weather, as distinct from things made by people.

For teachers: the totality of the physical world and its phenomena, specifically flora, fauna, and landscapes as opposed to human-made environments.

- We spent the weekend hiking and enjoying the beauty of nature.
- Conservationists argue that human encroachment into protected areas is causing irreparable damage to the delicate balance of nature.

### 2. character or type

noun · CEFR B1

the basic character or quality of a person, animal, or thing.

For teachers: the innate or essential qualities and character of a person, object, or situation.

- It is not in his nature to be mean to other people.
- The complex nature of the legal dispute required the intervention of several high-level specialists from different jurisdictions.

### 3. Mother Nature

noun · CEFR B2 · Literary

the force that controls the weather and all living things, often spoken about as if it were a person.

For teachers: the personification of natural forces as a creative or controlling agency.

- You cannot fight against nature when a storm is coming.
- The poet describes nature as a stern mother who provides for her children but demands absolute obedience to her laws.

### 4. bodily healing

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical · Formal

the natural power of the body to heal itself without medicine.

For teachers: the inherent restorative or regenerative power of a living organism to recover from illness or injury.

- The doctor said we should just let nature take its course and wait for the fever to break.
- In palliative care, the medical team may decide to step back and let nature take its course rather than pursuing aggressive interventions.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'let nature take its course'.

## Examples

- I love spending time in nature during the summer.
- The documentary explores how different species survive in nature without any help from humans.
- Environmentalists argue that we must find a balance between industrial progress and the preservation of nature to ensure the planet remains habitable for future generations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.