Inbornness: meaning, definitions and examples
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inbornness
[ ɪnˈbɔrn.nəs ]
natural traits
Inbornness refers to the quality of being innate or existing from birth. It often relates to characteristics or traits that are inherent in an individual, rather than acquired through experience or environment.
Synonyms
inherited quality, innateness, natural disposition.
Examples of usage
- The inbornness of certain talents can be seen in artists and musicians from a young age.
- Some researchers argue that inbornness plays a crucial role in personality development.
- The inbornness of a reflex action demonstrates the body's automatic responses.
- Inbornness in psychological traits can influence behavior significantly.
Etymology
The term inbornness is derived from the adjective 'inborn,' which has roots in the early Middle English word 'inbourn' or 'inborn,' meaning 'existing from birth or natural.' The prefix 'in-' indicates a state of being contained or inherent, while 'born' comes from the Old English 'boren,' meaning 'to bear' or 'to bring forth.' This concept highlights the philosophical discussions on nature versus nurture, illustrating how certain traits, whether physical or psychological, are present from the moment of birth. Over time, discussions around inbornness have evolved, especially in the fields of psychology, genetics, and sociology, as scholars seek to understand the extent of inherent traits in contrast to those formed by external influences.