instinct

3 definitions • 7 examples

the way people or animals naturally react or behave, without having to think or learn about it:

All his instincts told him to stay near the car and wait for help.

[ + to infinitive ] Her first instinct was to run.

It is instinct that tells the birds when to begin their migration.

have an instinct for figurative Bob seems to have an instinct for (= is naturally good at) knowing which products will sell.

a natural ability that helps you decide what to do or how to act without thinking:

[ U ] He lacked the instinct for quick action.

[ C ] His biggest asset may be his political instincts.

Instinct is also the ability to behave in a particular way that has not been learned:

[ U ] the maternal instinct