instinctively
Americanadverb
-
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
Etymology
Origin of instinctively
Explanation
Acting instinctively means doing something without thinking because it comes naturally to you—like catching a ball thrown your way or dodging out of danger. The adverb instinctively comes from the noun instinct, which refers to "an innate, natural response." When you react instinctively, you’re relying on automatic impulses or "gut feelings," often without realizing it. For instance, if you instinctively reach out to catch a falling object or flinch when startled, your brain is bypassing conscious thought to help keep you safe.
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.
But we get used to new tech quickly and turn to it instinctively.
From Slate • May 6, 2026
She said that because her younger sibling was with her and the incident lasted "so long" - she estimates several minutes - she instinctively reacted.
From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026
Most parents instinctively understand this, which is why AI is being hyped as a way to give kids more socializing-at-school time.
From Salon • Mar. 30, 2026
When people try to focus on a faint sound, many instinctively shut their eyes.
From Science Daily • Mar. 20, 2026
She gasped and pulled her hand back, bringing the finger up instinctively to her mouth.
From "Out of Darkness" by Ashley Hope Pérez
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
