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human nature
noun
: the nature of humans
especially
: the fundamental dispositions and traits of humans
Examples of human nature in a Sentence
You can't change human nature.
Recent Examples on the Web
Becker’s multidisciplinary exploration of human nature and his testimony challenge us to move beyond our fears and see the beauty that surrounds our fragile lives.
—Kirby Adams, The Courier-Journal, 1 July 2024
No wonder Sigmund Freud was drawn to this treasury of human nature.
—Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2024
Grand speculations about human nature, the tides of history, and the possibilities of government were traded across the dinner table.
—Charles King, Foreign Affairs, 24 Oct. 2023
But, Simon said, there also is the human nature of living in the moment and getting to take in such moments such as lights-out shooting performances or players arriving with skill sets exceeding what was shown on tape.
—Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 19 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for human nature
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'human nature.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
15th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of human nature was
in the 15th century
Dictionary Entries Near human nature
Cite this Entry
“Human nature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/human%20nature. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.
Kids Definition
human nature
noun
: the nature of human beings
especially
: the ways of thinking, acting, and reacting that are common to most or all human beings or that are learned in social situations
More from Merriam-Webster on human nature
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about human nature
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