instinct

¹in·stinct

noun \ˈin-ˌstiŋ(k)t\

Definition of INSTINCT

1

: a natural or inherent aptitude, impulse, or capacity <had an instinct for the right word>

2

a : a largely inheritable and unalterable tendency of an organism to make a complex and specific response to environmental stimuli without involving reason b : behavior that is mediated by reactions below the conscious level

— in·stinc·tu·al \in-ˈstiŋ(k)-chə-wəl, -chəl, -shwəl, -chü-əl\ adjective

— in·stinc·tu·al·ly adverb

Examples of INSTINCT

1. Our first instinct was to run.
2. Cats possess a natural hunting instinct.
3. Seeing the baby aroused all her maternal instincts.
4. He has been guided throughout his career by his political instincts.
5. Mere instinct alerted her to the danger.
6. He knew by instinct what not to say.
7. She seemed to know by instinct that something was wrong.
8. He has a strong survival instinct.
9. an athlete with good instincts

Origin of INSTINCT

Middle English, from Latin instinctus impulse, from instinguere to incite; akin to Latin instigare to instigate

First Known Use: 15th century

Other Psychology Terms

fetish, hypochondria, intelligence, mania, narcissism, neurosis, pathological, psychosis, schadenfreude, subliminal