Another Word For Instinct

Meaning

The word "instinct" refers to an innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior in animals and humans. It is an automatic response to certain stimuli, which doesn't require conscious thought or learning. For example, many animals know how to find food or escape from danger without being taught; they simply do it as part of their instinctual behavior.

Synonyms

• Impulse
• Intuition
• Gut feeling
• Natural tendency
• Reflex

Antonyms

• Reason
• Deliberation
• Thoughtfulness
• Calculation
• Intellect

Etymology

The word "instinct" comes from the Latin word "instinctus," which means "a prompting" or "a stimulus." This is derived from "instinguere," meaning "to incite," from "in-" (in) and "stinguere" (to incite or to push).

Examples

1. Many birds have a natural instinct to migrate south for the winter.
2. Her instincts told her that he was not being honest.
3. The puppy followed its instinct and curled up next to its mother for warmth.
4. Athletes often rely on their instincts to make split-second decisions during competition.
5. Parenting can often be guided by instinct, with parents just knowing what their child needs at a moment's notice.