Instinctively
/ɪnˈstɪŋktɪvli/
Definitions
Acting or done as a result of a natural impulse or feeling; without conscious thought.
/ɪnˈstɪŋktɪvli/
Acting or behaving based on instinct
The cat instinctively hid under the bed when the dog entered the room.
💡 Simply: It's like when you do something without even thinking about it, like when you jump back when you see something scary or try to catch something that's falling. It's a quick, natural reaction.
👶 For kids: When you do something without thinking, like when you are scared and you jump.
More Examples
She instinctively knew something was wrong as soon as she saw his face.
A baby will instinctively start to cry when it is hungry.
How It's Used
"Birds instinctively build nests."
"She instinctively recoiled from the loud noise."
From Old French *instinctif* (relating to or guided by instinct), from Latin *instinctus* (impulse, instigation), from *instinguere* (to incite, impel), from *in-* (in, on) + *stinguere* (to prick, goad).
The word 'instinctively' has been used since the early 19th century, reflecting the growing interest in animal behavior and psychology.
Memory tip
Think of 'instant action'; you react instinctively, like a reflex.