second nature

noun

: an acquired deeply ingrained habit or skill
after a while, using the gearshift becomes second nature

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now, going in and out of the house of her own accord has become second nature to her. Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 July 2025 Especially with my schedule being much more hectic, finding the time for it has to be second nature. Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 22 July 2025 The collaboration between Mears and Woods was second nature. Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 9 July 2025 At this point, though, making another pivot is almost second nature for her. George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for second nature

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of second nature was in 1582

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Second nature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/second%20nature. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!