natural science

noun

1. a science or knowledge of objects or processes observable in nature, as biology or physics, as distinguished from the abstract or theoretical sciences, as mathematics or philosophy.

natural science

noun

1. the sciences collectively that are involved in the study of the physical world and its phenomena, including biology, physics, chemistry, and geology, but excluding social sciences, abstract or theoretical sciences, such as mathematics, and applied sciences
2. any one of these sciences

natural science

1. A science, such as biology, chemistry, or physics, that deals with the objects, phenomena, or laws of nature and the physical world.

Derived Forms

• natural scientist, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of natural science¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

Because as Marx started to study natural sciences later in the 1850s and 1860s, he came to realize the development of technologies in capitalism actually don't create a condition for emancipation of the working class.

From Salon

Museums dedicated to the natural sciences have long been associated with dark spaces and nature dioramas, but that may be changing.

From New York Times

George Washington advocated for a national university that would teach the arts and natural sciences, along with literature, rhetoric and criticism.

From Salon

His five children all followed his lead, going into the natural sciences and becoming outspoken advocates for environmental protection.

From New York Times

"I most likely wouldn't be in the natural sciences if it weren't for David Attenborough's documentaries," says Clark, explaining why he chose to name the new fossil after Attenborough.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• biology
• physics