nature study

American  

noun

1. the study of plants and animals, especially by amateurs.

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nature study British  

noun

1. the study of the natural world, esp animals and plants, by direct observation at an elementary level

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Etymology

Origin of nature study

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

nature study

When does a delicate nature study become an entry in a corporate ledger of natural resources?

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 3, 2026

I adored a nature study series of picture books by Père Castor, which are sadly now out of print.

From New York Times ● Dec. 5, 2019

There’s also the super-long 19mm eye relief, which makes the Leica bins ideal for people working in law enforcement, rescue, for military applications, or for nature study and/or photography.

From Slate ● Jul. 23, 2018

To many Calvinists, nature study had an aura of sanctity as a moral occupation for men, women, and children alike.

From Time ● Jul. 5, 2015

The woodland appeals to all children and is frequently the topic in history, geography, botany, literature, and nature study as well as drawing.

From Blackboard Drawing by Whitney, Frederick