Instinct

/ˈɪn.stɪŋkt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
An innate or natural impulse or tendency to behave in a particular way.
A mother’s instinct often drives her to protect her children.
A natural or intuitive way of acting or thinking.
His instinct told him to be cautious when entering the dark alley.
A complex reaction, often involving biological mechanisms, that leads to specific behaviors.
Birds have an instinct to migrate south for the winter.
A behavior that is performed without conscious thought or reasoning.
The cat's instinct to hunt was evident as it stalked its prey.

Etymology

From Latin 'instinctus' meaning 'impulse, indication, or instinct'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

follow your instinct
to trust and act based on one's natural feelings
instinctive behavior
actions that occur naturally without conscious thought
gut instinct
a strong intuitive feeling or sense about something

Related Words

intuition
The ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning.
reflex
An automatic, instinctive response to a stimulus.

Slang Meanings

Going with your gut
I had a gut feeling about the situation.
Trust your gut
I've learned to trust my gut in tough situations.