The word physics is derived from Greek word fusis, meaning nature or natural things.
As such, physics is defined as that branch of science, which studies natural phenomena in terms of basic laws and physical quantities.
The study is generally structured to satisfy queries, arising from the observed events occurring around our world. In this sense, Physics answers questions about universe and the way elements of universe interact to compose natural phenomena.
The underlying principles in physics are simple and general, but defining (basic) in nature. Elements and quantities used to describe natural phenomena are also general and basic. The whole of universe, as a matter of fact, can be considered to be comprising of two basic quantities :
(i) matter and (ii) energy.
For this reason, some physicists rightly define physics as the study of matter and energy.
Goal Of Physics :
So the goal of physics is to provide an understanding of nature. The science of physics was developed to explain our physical environment.