elements

noun

1. (form-of, plural)plural of element
2. (plural, plural-only)The weather, such as wind or rain; environmental conditions considered as a source of danger, wear, etc.

   “This artifact was found deep in a cave where it was protected from the elements.”

   “Shelter from the elements is a basic survival need for humans.”

3. (plural, plural-only)The basic tenets of an area of knowledge, basics, fundamentals.
4. (plural, plural-only)The bread and wine of the Eucharist.