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

For the rest of us, though, knowing how to find bargains on brand-name luggage, travel clothing, or walking shoes isn’t exactly second nature. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 28 Nov. 2024

This ensures that new knowledge and skills are applied correctly and become second nature. —Manoj Kulkarni, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024

Make sure employees are empowered to go above and beyond for clients, ensuring that exceptional service becomes second nature. —Ken Thomas, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

Clad in black leather pants, smashing seemed second nature to this muscle man whose face was painted in a white death mask. —Mars Salazar, Austin American-Statesman, 11 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above