human nature
Americannoun
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the psychological and social qualities that characterize humankind, especially in contrast with other living things.
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Sociology. the character of human conduct, generally regarded as produced by living in primary groups.
noun
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the qualities common to humanity
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ordinary human behaviour, esp considered as less than perfect
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sociol the unique elements that form a basic part of human life and distinguish it from other animal life
Etymology
Origin of human nature
First recorded in 1735–45
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In the University of Wyoming’s Cowboy Leadership Experience—the best-named executive education program, hands down—participants reckon with harsh truths about human nature.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 22, 2026
That distinction adds a new layer to the long-running debate over whether violence is an inherent part of human nature.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 7, 2026
These days I’m much less anti-mainstream, especially when it’s something that brings us closer to our true human nature, which is reflected to some degree in the seasonal behaviors of other species.
From Salon ● Sep. 26, 2026
Music made by artificial intelligence will be banned from Australia's top charts under new guidelines aimed at protecting "the human nature of artistry", an industry body said Tuesday.
From Barron's ● Aug. 25, 2026
In his business, he observed human nature and came to certain conclusions about it.
From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
