instinct

Definition

A natural or inherent impulse or behaviour.

Etymology

From Latin īnstīnctus, past participle of īnstinguō (“to incite, to instigate”), from in (“in, on”) + stinguō (“to prick”).

Example Sentences

• "Many animals fear fire by instinct."
• "By a divine instinct, men's minds mistrust / Ensuing dangers."
• "In spite of these qualifications, the broad distinction between instinct and habit is undeniable. To take extreme cases, every animal at birth can take food by instinct, before it has had opportunity to learn; on the other hand, no one can ride a bicycle by instinct, though, after learning, the necessary movements become just as automatic as if they were instinctive."