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

It’s human nature to look at the new world with nostalgia for the past.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 21, 2026

Shakespeare put all his understanding of human nature into Iago’s brainwashing master class.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 17, 2026

It’s human nature to want to chase the stocks up the most and sell after large pullbacks, but letting emotions drive decisions is a recipe for underperformance.

From Barron's • Jan. 7, 2026

It was human nature, and when that happened, she would be even worse off than before.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss