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

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

After sailing around the globe with Capt. James Cook, he acquired a uniquely cosmopolitan perspective on human nature.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 12, 2026

But, alas, human nature is apparently stronger than so-called honest expertise, even among scientists.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 3, 2026

Like it or not, Colbert was doing what comedians are supposed to do: hold a mirror up to society, politics, human nature or whatever their focus may be, and call out the absurdities within.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 20, 2026

Whether it was Cuba, Russia, or the United States, whether about the nature of crime, money, or bureaucracies—or human nature in general, including how many people really belonged in prison—their views rarely matched.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French