noun
nature
NAY-chur/ˈneɪtʃər/
The physical world apart from human creations.
The woodland stream shows nature thriving without human structures.
Etymology
Latin natura literally meant “birth,” connecting nature with growth and the processes that produce living things. Its broader meaning, “the universe,” developed into the material world considered apart from human civilization.
In context
the value of nature. I want to tell you what we can all do to help protect the natural world
More examples
- She enjoys spending time in nature.
- The documentary explores the forces of nature.
- Children learn about nature by watching the pond.
Forms
nature
natural adjective — Existing apart from human manufacture.
Similar words
- wilderness
- Relatively untouched land rather than the whole natural world.
- environment
- Surrounding conditions, which may include human-built places.