instinct
US /ˈɪn.stɪŋkt/
UK /ˈɪn.stɪŋkt/
1.
an innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior in animals in response to certain stimuli
:
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Birds build nests by instinct.
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The salmon's instinct to return to its birthplace is remarkable.
2.
a natural or intuitive way of acting or thinking
:
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She knew by instinct that something was wrong.
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My first instinct was to run away.