natural resource

noun

1. a naturally occurring source of wealth, as land or water.

2. natural resources, the natural wealth of a country, consisting of land, forests, mineral deposits, water, etc.

natural resource

1. Something, such as a forest, a mineral deposit, or fresh water, that is found in nature and is necessary or useful to humans.

2. See more at nonrenewable renewable

Word History and Origins

Origin of natural resource¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Despite its natural resources, Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, with 75% of people living below the poverty line, according to the World Bank.

From BBC

Maoist-affected regions remain among India's poorest and most underdeveloped, despite rich natural resources, with ordinary citizens - especially tribal communities- bearing the heaviest burden.

From BBC

“Groundwater will become the most important natural resource in the world’s drying regions. We need to carefully protect it.”

From Los Angeles Times

“SWFs have traditionally been set up by states rich in natural resources to manage their budgetary surplus, diversify their economies, and protect their wealth for future generations,” observed the Carnegie Endowment’s Feldstein and Vittori.

From Los Angeles Times

“The negative impacts on public access, natural resources and environmental health warrant our scrutiny under California as a standard of review.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• raw material 
• timber 
• water