Meaning & Definition of word "Involuntary"
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Involuntary
/ɪnˈvɒlənˌtɛri/
adjective:
- 1. Not done by choice; without intention or control.
- Example: His involuntary reaction to the loud noise startled everyone in the room.
- 2. Occurring without voluntary control, such as certain bodily functions.
- Example: Breathing is an involuntary function that continues even during sleep.
- 3. Not being able to act according to one's own will.
- Example: She gave an involuntary shudder as the chilly wind passed by.
- 4. Relating to actions or movements that are reflexive rather than deliberate.
- Example: The patient's involuntary movements were a result of the neurological disorder.
Etymology
From Latin involuntarius, meaning 'not willing, unintentional'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
involuntary manslaughter:
The unlawful killing of a person without malice aforethought, often as a result of negligence.
involuntary commitment:
The process of admitting an individual to a mental health facility against their will.
involuntary muscle:
Muscle that is not under conscious control, such as the heart muscle.
Related Words
voluntary:
Done by one's own free will.
reflex:
An automatic response to a stimulus.
Slang Meanings of involuntary
Meaning: Unintentional reaction.
Example Sentence: Her jump at the surprise party was totally involuntary.
Meaning: A reflex action.
Example Sentence: That flinch was an involuntary response, not something I meant to do.