second nature

noun

: an acquired deeply ingrained habit or skill

after a while, using the gearshift becomes second nature

Synonyms

• custom
• fashion
• habit
• habitude
• pattern
• practice
• practise
• ritual
• trick
• way
• wont

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

Decisions take the form of checklists during avalanche safety course work, but eventually the questions you’re trained to ask become second nature. —Ashley Thess, Outdoor Life, 14 Mar. 2025

Having worked at Zaha Hadid Architects, pushing the boundaries comes second nature to him and adopting a forward-thinking approach is exactly the direction for his eponymous practice. —Kissa Castaneda, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025

For Peloton instructor and fitness expert Emma Lovewell, movement has always been second nature. —Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 7 Mar. 2025

Over time, however, seeing things from new perspectives will become second nature. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for second nature

• legislature
• nomenclature