| 释义 |
in·stinct
I. \ˈinz(ˌ)tiŋ(k)t, -_tēŋ-, ˈin(ˌ)st-\ noun
(-s)
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin instinctus, from instinctus (past participle)
1. obsolete : instigation, impulse
2. : a natural or inherent aptitude, tendency, impulse, or capacity
< an instinct for the right word >
< his instinct toward success >
< the religious instincts of primitive peoples >
3.
a. : complex and specific response on the part of an organism to environmental stimuli that is largely hereditary and unalterable though the pattern of behavior through which it is expressed may be modified by learning, that does not involve reason, and that has as its goal the removal of a somatic tension or excitation
b. : behavior that is mediated by reactions (as reflex arcs) below the conscious level — usually not used technically
II. \(ˈ)inz|tiŋ(k)t, ə̇nzˈt-, -n|sti-\ adjective
Etymology: Latin instinctus, past participle of instinguere to instigate, incite; akin to Latin instigare to instigate, incite — more at stick
1. obsolete : implanted by nature : innate
2. obsolete : impelled by an inner or animating or exciting agency
3. : profoundly imbued : filled, charged — usually used postpositively and with with
< a spirit instinct with human kindness >
< instinct with patriotism >
III. transitive verb
(-ed/-ing/-s)
Etymology: Latin instinctus (past participle)
1. obsolete : instigate, impel
2. obsolete : to implant as an animating power |