instinct

Definitions

An innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior in animals in response to certain stimuli.

A natural or intuitive aptitude or inclination for a particular activity or task.

An immediate, unreasoned emotional reaction or impulse.

Examples

My survival instinct kicked in when I heard the loud noise behind me.

She followed her gut instinct and decided to take the job offer.

Synonyms

intuition natural impulse innate tendency gut feeling inborn drive natural inclination sixth sense

Antonyms

reason logic intellect rationality learned behavior acquired skill thoughtful analysis