second nature

noun

: an acquired deeply ingrained habit or skill

after a while, using the gearshift becomes second nature

Examples of second nature in a Sentence

After a while, using the gearshift becomes second nature. speaking and thinking in Japanese simply became second nature to her during the years she spent in Kyoto

Recent Examples on the Web Dealing with unusual animal rescues has become second nature with Glendale firefighters. —

Kerria Weaver, The Arizona Republic, 6 Sep. 2024 Not to suggest that those for whom social responsibility is second nature occupy some innate moral high ground—rather, a natural response to adversity. —

Ebony Flake, Essence, 31 Aug. 2024 Cryptocurrency, utterly baffling to many boomers, is second nature to tech-savvy millennials. —

Daniel De Visé, USA TODAY, 26 July 2024 Cleaning the lint trap with each cycle comes as second nature to many, but Thomas says most homeowners forget one crucial step: cleaning past the screen. —

Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for second nature

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'second nature.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of second nature was in 1582

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Second nature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/second%20nature. Accessed 29 Sep. 2024.

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