VocabDictionary

force of nature

/fɔːrs əv ˈneɪ.tʃər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An uncontrollable natural agency or phenomenon, such as a hurricane, earthquake, or flood.

Example Sentences:
  • The coastal town was completely devastated by a force of nature.
  • Against such a formidable force of nature, human engineering can only do so much.
2.noun

A person or thing regarded as possessing overwhelming, unstoppable energy, power, or influence.

Example Sentences:
  • My grandmother is an absolute force of nature who runs three charities and still bakes every Sunday.
  • Once she sets her mind on a project, she becomes a force of nature that no one can stop.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “force of nature”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originally used literally in the 17th and 18th centuries in scientific and philosophical contexts to describe fundamental physical powers operating in the natural world, such as gravity, wind, or earthquakes. Over time, the phrase underwent semantic broadening to describe an unstoppable human personality characterized by overwhelming energy, passion, and efficacy.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Picture a wild hurricane or tornado that cannot be stopped; apply that exact unstoppable energy to a person with an enormous personality.

Frequently Asked Questions About “force of nature

1. What is the meaning of “force of nature” in English?

In English, force of nature (noun) is defined as: “An uncontrollable natural agency or phenomenon, such as a hurricane, earthquake, or flood.”.

2. How do you use “force of nature” in a sentence?

The coastal town was completely devastated by a force of nature.

3. What are English synonyms of “force of nature”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “force of nature”?

Originally used literally in the 17th and 18th centuries in scientific and philosophical contexts to describe fundamental physical powers operating in the natural world, such as gravity, wind, or earthquakes. Over time, the phrase underwent semantic broadening to describe an unstoppable human personality characterized by overwhelming energy, passion, and efficacy.