second nature

noun

: an acquired deeply ingrained habit or skill

after a while, using the gearshift becomes second nature

Synonyms of second nature

• ritual
• habit
• way
• trick
• practice
• custom

Examples of second nature in a Sentence

After a while, using the gearshift becomes second nature.

speaking and thinking in Japanese simply became second nature to her during the years she spent in Kyoto

Recent Examples on the Web

The vocal and physical manifestations of the characters must become second nature. —Sarah Sotoodeh , Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 8 Mar. 2026

For the children, emergency protocols have become second nature. —Chelsea Jones, CBS News, 3 Mar. 2026

For Pacific Beach’s 2026 Honorary Mayor, serving, loving and supporting the PB community comes as second nature. —Madison Beveridge, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Mar. 2026

That means stress-testing contingency plans, communicating with stakeholders, checking supply-chain risk and all the other things that should be second nature to any global operator in a crisis. —Diane Brady, Fortune, 2 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for second nature

• legislature
• nomenclature