What is the definition of "environment"?

The definition of the word "environment" is the total of all surrounding objects, influences or circumstances. In an ecological sense, it refers to the water, air, minerals and organisms of a particular area. It can also refer to the cultural or social influences that shape a person's life.

The word "environment" is a noun. An example of how it can be used in a sentence is as follows: "The coal factory polluted the surrounding environment so badly that the river could no longer be used for fishing." Another example is, "The child's home environment was a safe and loving one."