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

The violence feels counterintuitive to human nature — and specifically the nature of Minnesotans.

From Salon

But accepting that “where they are” is a degraded information ecosystem designed to reward the worst impulses in human nature means admitting that there is no possibility of rebuilding something more substantive.

From Salon

It is human nature to project our phobias, prejudices and obsessions onto what is simply a biological contest between our immune system and the amoral pathogens trying to replicate themselves within us.

From The Wall Street Journal

Shakespeare put all his understanding of human nature into Iago’s brainwashing master class.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s human nature to want to chase the stocks up the most and sell after large pullbacks, but letting emotions drive decisions is a recipe for underperformance.

From Barron's