intrinsic
ihn-TRIHN-zihk
Intrinsic (adj) means belonging to something by its very nature; essential and built-in, not added from outside. Example: “The intrinsic value of the painting has nothing to do with its price tag.”
adj
1
Belonging to something by its very nature; essential and built-in, not added from outside.
"The intrinsic value of the painting has nothing to do with its price tag."
"Curiosity is intrinsic to how children learn."
How to use intrinsic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA core, natural part of something — not something added on.
Common mistake
The opposite is "extrinsic" (coming from outside).
Easily confused with
Common pairings
intrinsic value
intrinsic motivation
intrinsic to
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Word forms
- Plural
- intrinsics
- Comparative
- more intrinsic
- Superlative
- most intrinsic
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ value of the painting has nothing to do with its price tag.
Etymology
From Latin intrīnsecus, "on the inside, inwardly," from an assumed intrim ("within") + secus ("on the side of").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “intrinsic” mean?
The word “intrinsic” means belonging to something by its very nature; essential and built-in, not added from outside. In plain terms, a core, natural part of something — not something added on.
How do you pronounce “intrinsic”?
“Intrinsic” is pronounced ihn-TRIHN-zihk (/ɪnˈtɹɪn.zɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “intrinsic” in a sentence?
Here is “intrinsic” used in a sentence: “The intrinsic value of the painting has nothing to do with its price tag.”
What is another word for “intrinsic”?
Words with a similar meaning to “intrinsic” include built-in, essential, immanent, inborn, resident and infused.
What is the opposite of “intrinsic”?
The opposite of “intrinsic” — its antonyms — are alien, external, extrinsic and foreign.
What part of speech is “intrinsic”?
“Intrinsic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “intrinsic” come from?
The word “intrinsic” comes from Latin. From Latin intrīnsecus, "on the inside, inwardly," from an assumed intrim ("within") + secus ("on the side of").
Is “intrinsic” a common word?
“Intrinsic” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
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