Definition of INSTINCT

instinct

Meanings

Plural: instincts

Noun

  • inborn pattern of behavior often responsive to specific stimuli
    • "the spawning instinct in salmon"
    • "altruistic instincts in social animals"
  • A natural or inherent impulse or behaviour.
  • An intuitive reaction not based on rational conscious thought.

Adjective Satellite

  • (followed by `with')deeply filled or permeated
    • "words instinct with love"

Adj

  • Imbued, charged (with something).

Origin / Etymology

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

Synonyms

inherent aptitude, replete

Scrabble Score: 10

instinct is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
instinct is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
instinct is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 13

instinct is a valid Words With Friends word