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

"I think the fixation on the toilet is kind of human nature," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

Whatever changes AI has in store for the labor force, it won’t change human nature.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

Loubna Mrie’s candid and absorbing memoir, ‘Defiance,’ is a stark reminder of the corruptions of power, the uncertainties of revolution and the frequent viciousness of human nature.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 3, 2026

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

From Salon • Feb. 7, 2026

“So is it just human nature to believe that things happen for a reason—to find some shred of meaning even in the worst experiences?”

From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline