AskEraser  |  Settings
Ask.com   
 


Synonyms
in·stinct (ĭństĭngkt́)

[Middle English, from Latin īnstīnctus, impulse, from past participle of īnstinguere, to incite, in-, intensive pref.; see in–2, + stinguere, to prick.]

noun 

  1. An inborn pattern of behavior that is characteristic of a species and is often a response to specific environmental stimuli: the spawning instinct in salmon; altruistic instincts in social animals.
  2. A powerful motivation or impulse.
  3. An innate capability or aptitude: an instinct for tact and diplomacy.

adjective 

  1. Deeply filled or imbued: words instinct with love.
  2. Obsolete Impelled from within.