n.
/
ˈɪnstɪŋ(k)t/
- an innate pattern of behaviour in animals in response to certain stimuli.
▸a natural or intuitive way of acting or thinking.
- a natural propensity or skill.
adj.
/
ɪnˈstɪŋ(k)t/
(
instinct with)
formal imbued or filled with (a quality).
Derivative
- instinctual adj.
- instinctually adv.
Etymology
ME: from L. instinctus ‘impulse’, from instinguere, from in- ‘towards’ + stinguere ‘to prick’.
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