adj
Uncommon
involuntary
ihn-VOL-uhn-tree
Involuntary (adj) means Done without conscious control or against one's will. Example: “Blinking is mostly an involuntary reflex.”
adj
1
Done without conscious control or against one's will.
"Blinking is mostly an involuntary reflex."
"He was placed on involuntary leave from the company."
How to use involuntary
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHappening automatically or against your will, rather than something you choose to do.
Common pairings
involuntary reflex
involuntary reaction
involuntary manslaughter
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more involuntary
- Superlative
- most involuntary
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Blinking is mostly an _____ reflex.
Etymology
From Late Latin involuntarius, from in- ("not") + voluntarius ("voluntary").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for involuntary
See all rhymes for involuntary →Frequently asked questions
What does “involuntary” mean?
The word “involuntary” means done without conscious control or against one's will. In plain terms, happening automatically or against your will, rather than something you choose to do.
How do you pronounce “involuntary”?
“Involuntary” is pronounced ihn-VOL-uhn-tree (/ɪnˈvɑ.lənˌtɛɹ.i/ in IPA).
How do you use “involuntary” in a sentence?
Here is “involuntary” used in a sentence: “Blinking is mostly an involuntary reflex.”
What is another word for “involuntary”?
Words with a similar meaning to “involuntary” include unintended and unvoluntary.
What part of speech is “involuntary”?
“Involuntary” is an adjective.
Where does the word “involuntary” come from?
The word “involuntary” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin involuntarius, from in- ("not") + voluntarius ("voluntary").
Is “involuntary” a common word?
“Involuntary” is an uncommon word in modern English.
