nature

na|ture [ `neıtʃər ] noun ***

1. ) uncount the physical world including all living things as well as the land and the oceans:

an opportunity to enjoy the beauties of nature in Alaska

Barone's interest was in nature, wildlife, and birds.

a ) the forces that control the physical world and life itself:

He's always loved pitting his skills against the forces of nature.

=> MOTHER NATURE

2. ) count or uncount a basic quality or feature of something:

nature of: It's the nature of plastic to melt under high temperatures.

They must understand the nature of our opposition to nuclear testing.

by its (very) nature: Medical records, by their very nature, contain sensitive information.

true nature (=real features or qualities): Dunston refused to reveal the true nature of her work.

in nature: The role of the Board is only advisory in nature.

a ) the basic character of a person or an animal:

The pony has a very gentle nature.

by nature: Apes are curious by nature.

in someone's nature: It isn't in my nature to be pushy or aggressive.

someone's better nature (=someone's kindness): If we can appeal to Charlotte's better nature (=persuade her to be kind) we can work out a compromise.

3. ) singular a particular type or class of thing:

It was inappropriate behavior for a meeting of this nature.

in the nature of (=similar to): The next consultation will be more in the nature of a public meeting than a formal inquiry.

in the nature of things

in the way that things usually happen:

It is in the nature of things that categories will overlap.

let nature take its course

to allow something to develop without trying to influence it:

Perhaps we should just let nature take its course.

=> CALL 2, SECOND NATURE