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

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.

Over time, budgeting becomes second nature, and its visibility into your financial life unlocks new growth opportunities. —

Tiffany Grant, Forbes, 1 Jan. 2025 If talking about bodily functions with your fam is as second nature as the functions themselves, the Tushy Spa 3.0 is the perfect gift. —

Sarah Han and Annie Blackman, Allure, 14 Sep. 2024 Just as cybersecurity awareness evolved to become second nature to those handling sensitive data, accountants must now cultivate a similar vigilance for deepfake risks. —

Pankaj Vasani, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024 Legal drama is second nature to David E. Kelley, whose Emmy recognition in the genre spans three decades, from L.A. Law in the 1980s and The Practice and Ally McBeal in the ’90s to Boston Legal in the 2000s. —

Brande Victorian, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for second nature

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 22 Jan. 2025.

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