intrinsic

Definition

Innate, inherent, inseparable from the thing itself, essential.

Etymology

From Middle French intrinsèque, from Latin intrīnsecus (“on the inside, inwardly”), from *intrim, an assumed adverbial form of inter (“within”) + secus (“by, on the side”).

Example Sentences

• "the intrinsic value of gold or silver"
• "the intrinsic merit of an action"
• "He was better qualified than they to estimate justly the intrinsic value of Grecian philosophy and refinement."