INNATE Synonyms: 51 Similar and Opposite Words

innate

adjective

i-ˈnāt

as in inherent

being a part of the innermost nature of a person or thing an innate athletic ability that allowed him to excel at just about any sport he tried his hand at

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word innate different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of innate are congenital, hereditary, inborn, and inbred. While all these words mean "not acquired after birth," innate applies to qualities or characteristics that are part of one's inner essential nature.

an innate sense of fair play

How are the words congenital and hereditary related as synonyms of innate?

Both congenital and hereditary refer to what is acquired before or at birth, the former to things acquired during fetal development and the latter to things transmitted from one's ancestors.

a congenital heart murmur

eye color is hereditary

When would inborn be a good substitute for innate?

The meanings of inborn and innate largely overlap; however, inborn suggests a quality or tendency either actually present at birth or so marked and deep-seated as to seem so.

her inborn love of nature

When might inbred be a better fit than innate?

The synonyms inbred and innate are sometimes interchangeable, but inbred suggests something either acquired from parents by heredity or so deeply rooted and ingrained as to seem acquired in that way.

inbred political loyalties

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of innate The resort seems to have an innate understanding that the truest method of relaxation is admiring and engaging with the scenery. —

Livia Caligor, Architectural Digest, 23 Dec. 2025 This comes thanks to a Capricorn's innate dynamic nature. —

Olivia Munson, USA Today, 20 Dec. 2025 Boredom also offers a brain boost that can cultivate a child’s innate curiosity and creativity. —

Margaret Murray, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025 From celebrity connections to denim’s innate storytelling ability, find out what’s fueling the demand for rare denim pieces. —

Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 19 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for innate

Recent Examples of Synonyms for innate

Adjective

The risks inherent in the LBO structure are exacerbated by the amount of debt PSKY must incur, its current financial position and future prospects, as well as the lengthy period to close the transaction – which PSKY itself estimates to be 12-18 months following signing.

— Todd Spangler, Variety, 7 Jan. 2026
Seen through this lens, every person possesses inherent dignity and value.

— James O. Cunningham, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Jan. 2026