human nature

American  

noun

1. the psychological and social qualities that characterize humankind, especially in contrast with other living things.

2. Sociology. the character of human conduct, generally regarded as produced by living in primary groups.

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human nature British  

noun

1. the qualities common to humanity

2. ordinary human behaviour, esp considered as less than perfect

3. sociol the unique elements that form a basic part of human life and distinguish it from other animal life

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Etymology

Origin of human nature

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

If you’re young, you want it all at once; it’s human nature.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026

Walsh told the jury it was human nature to "box" or "shelve" feelings away – and that was what Complainant A and B had done over the years.

From BBC • Jun. 16, 2026

Even when overnight wealth just seems too easy and know-nothings have the confidence of experts, it’s human nature to join the crowd and drown out warnings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

Like it or not, Colbert was doing what comedians are supposed to do: hold a mirror up to society, politics, human nature or whatever their focus may be, and call out the absurdities within.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

It was human nature, and Jule had spent years training to make herself especially good at it.

From "Genuine Fraud" by E. Lockhart