The word "environment" refers to the surrounding conditions, influences, or circumstances in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. It encompasses both the natural world, including land, water, and climate, as well as human-made aspects like buildings, cities, and social contexts. In a broader sense, it can also refer to the various factors and conditions that affect life and development.
The word "environment" originates from the French word "environnement," which derives from the verb "environner," meaning "to surround." The root comes from the Latin word "invironare," where "in-" means "in" and "viron" is derived from "vir," meaning "man" or "man-like." Essentially, "environment" relates to what surrounds us.