innateness

noun

Pronunciation: /ɪˈneɪtnəs/

Definition

The quality of being present in an organism from birth rather than acquired through experience.

Examples

• The innateness of certain survival instincts ensures that newborns can immediately seek nourishment.

• Philosophers have debated the innateness of moral reasoning for centuries.

• Her research challenges the assumption regarding the innateness of musical talent.

Synonyms of innateness

Words with a similar meaning to innateness:

• nature
• inborn quality
• nativism
• inherence

Antonyms of innateness

Words with the opposite meaning to innateness:

• acquiredness
• learnedness

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