innate
ih-NAYT
Innate (adj) means present from birth; natural rather than learned. Example: “She has an innate talent for music.”
adj
1
Present from birth; natural rather than learned.
"She has an innate talent for music."
"Curiosity seems to be innate in young children."
How to use innate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBuilt into you from birth, rather than something you picked up through experience.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with inherent, which describes a quality that's a permanent part of something's nature but doesn't necessarily involve being "born" with it (an inherent flaw in a plan, for instance).
Easily confused with
Common pairings
innate ability
innate talent
innate sense
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- innates
- Past tense
- innated
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She has an _____ talent for music.
Etymology
From Latin innatus, "inborn," from in- ("in") plus nasci ("to be born") — related to native and natal.
Synonyms
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connate
connatural
congenital
congenite
genetous
inborn
inbred
indigenous
ingenite
native
natural
to the manner born
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for innate
See all rhymes for innate →Frequently asked questions
What does “innate” mean?
The word “innate” means present from birth; natural rather than learned. In plain terms, built into you from birth, rather than something you picked up through experience.
How do you pronounce “innate”?
“Innate” is pronounced ih-NAYT (/ɪˈneɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “innate” in a sentence?
Here is “innate” used in a sentence: “She has an innate talent for music.”
What is another word for “innate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “innate” include connate, connatural, congenital, congenite, genetous and inborn.
What is the opposite of “innate”?
The opposite of “innate” — its antonyms — are acquired, implanted, ingrafted, inculcated and infused.
What part of speech is “innate”?
“Innate” is an adjective.
Where does the word “innate” come from?
The word “innate” comes from Latin. From Latin innatus, "inborn," from in- ("in") plus nasci ("to be born") — related to native and natal.
Is “innate” a common word?
“Innate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
