Environment means the surroundings or conditions in which something exists or operates. Your environment includes everything around you: the air you breathe, the room you're sitting in, the neighborhood outside, the plants and animals nearby, and even the mood and atmosphere of a place.

The word appears in many contexts. Scientists studying the natural environment examine forests, oceans, climate, and wildlife. When people talk about protecting the environment, they mean taking care of Earth's air, water, soil, and living creatures. Environment applies to both natural and human-made settings: a cluttered desk creates a chaotic work environment, while a quiet library provides a focused learning environment. Teachers work to create positive classroom environments where students feel safe to ask questions and make mistakes.

Your environment shapes you more than you might realize. Growing up in a musical household creates an environment where you hear melodies daily. A supportive family environment helps children feel confident trying new things. Even your emotional environment matters: surrounding yourself with encouraging friends creates a different atmosphere than spending time with people who constantly complain.

The phrase environmental factors describes all the outside influences affecting something, from the weather conditions affecting a soccer game to the lighting and noise levels influencing how well you can concentrate on homework.