Definition of instinct
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: a natural or inherent aptitude, impulse, or capacity
had an instinct for the right word
2a
: 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
instinct
adjectiveDefinition of instinct (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: profoundly imbued : infused
my mood, instinct with romance— S. J. Perelman
2
obsolete
: impelled by an inner or animating or exciting agency
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for instinct
The first known use of instinct was in the 15th century
See more words from the same century