Instinct

Definition

An innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior in animals in response to certain stimuli.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/
• Respelling: IN-stinkt (with "IN" as in "tin" and "stinkt" as in "linked")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/
• Respelling: IN-stinkt (with "IN" as in "tin" and "stinkt" as in "linked")

In both dialects, "instinct" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "IN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "IN-stinkt."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "instinctus", meaning 'impulse', which is the past participle of "instinguere" which means 'to incite' or 'instigate'.

Derivatives

• Instinctive (adjective)
• Instinctively (adverb)
• Instinctual (adjective)
• Instinctuality (noun)
• Instinctiveness (noun)

Synonyms

• Intuition
• Impulse
• Innateness

Antonyms

• Learning
• Deliberation
• Calculation

Usage

"Instinct" is commonly used to describe natural, unlearned behaviors in animals and humans that occur in response to specific stimuli.

Related Terms

• Reflex
• Drive
• Reaction
• Inclination
• Nature

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Instinct (Noun, General): An innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior in animals in response to certain stimuli.
  • Example: "Birds have an instinct to migrate in the winter."

• Instinct (Noun, Human Behavior): An inherent inclination towards a particular behavior or action.
  • Example: "Her instinct told her that something was wrong."

• Instinct (Noun, Psychology): A natural or inherent impulse, inclination, or tendency.
  • Example: "The survival instinct is strong in many animals."

Note: The term "instinct" often refers to behaviors and patterns that are inherent and unlearned, as opposed to those acquired through experience or education.