involuntary

adjective

Pronunciation: /ɪnˈvɒl.ən.tər.i/

Definition

Done without conscious choice or performed as a reflex.

Examples

• A sudden, involuntary gasp escaped her lips when she saw the accident.

• The doctor tested the patient's involuntary reflexes by tapping his knee.

• He suffered from involuntary muscle spasms that made it difficult to hold a pen.

Synonyms of involuntary

Words with a similar meaning to involuntary:

• automatic
• reflexive
• spontaneous
• unintentional

Antonyms of involuntary

Words with the opposite meaning to involuntary:

• voluntary
• deliberate

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