the existing system of things; the world of matter, or of matter and mind; the creation; the universe.-the personified sum and order of causes and effects; the powers which produce existing phenomena, whether in the total or in detail; the agencies which carry on the processes of creation or of being; -- often conceived of as a single and separate entity, embodying the total of all finite agencies and forces as disconnected from a creating or ordering intelligence.-the established or regular course of things; usual order of events; connection of cause and effect.-conformity to that which is natural, as distinguished from that which is artifical, or forced, or remote from actual experience.-the sum of qualities and attributes which make a person or thing what it is, as distinct from others; native character; inherent or essential qualities or attributes; peculiar constitution or quality of being.-hence: kind, sort; character; quality.-physical constitution or existence; the vital powers; the natural life.-natural affection or reverence.-constitution or quality of mind or character.-to endow with natural qualities.