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

See Examples For:

human nature

That’s because so many buyers of these funds bought high and sold low—a recurring pattern that says much more about human nature than about cryptocurrency.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 10, 2026

Whatever agendas they may personally espouse, these writers are too alert to the messiness of history and human nature to be rigidly ideological in their work.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 29, 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

Thankfully, our Founders had a deeper understanding of human nature.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 19, 2026

“Such a grim view of human nature you have,” he says.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth