Synonyms

instinctively

American

[in-stingk-tiv-lee] / ɪnˈstɪŋk tɪv li /

Also instinctually

adverb

in a way that is innate, unlearned, or not under conscious control.

A smiling mouth raises the pitch of the voice, which is instinctively perceived as less dominant and more approachable.
My few friends were often unavailable for play, so I instinctively turned to the family dog.
in a way that stems from natural insight or inclination; intuitively.

The exhibits are intended to be used instinctively, and the instructions and explanations are easy to understand.

Other Word Forms

half-instinctively adverb
noninstinctively adverb
noninstinctually adverb
semi-instinctively adverb
uninstinctively adverb

Etymology

Origin of instinctively

instinctive ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When people try to focus on a faint sound, many instinctively shut their eyes.

From Science Daily • Mar. 20, 2026

I instinctively blinked back as happy tears streamed down my cheek.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

A flicker that sharpens the sweetness and makes you reach instinctively for another square.

From Salon • Mar. 5, 2026

The team sergeant instinctively put his freezing metal compass between his lips, and nearly got a frost injury.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 23, 2026

The second mine hits my lips, my tongue instinctively blocks its progress.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023