nature

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

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.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

I oft admire How Nature, wise and frugal, could commit Such disproportions.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

The particular way someone or something is, especially — 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.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

The particular way someone or something is, especially — The distinguishing characteristic of a person or thing, understood as its general class, sort, type, etc.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “nature” mean?

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.

Is “nature” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.