Need another word for Involuntary? Use these synonyms of Involuntary from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
involuntary
unintentional
accidental
unpremeditated
spontaneous
instinctive
reflex
unconscious
automatic
mechanical
forced
coerced
compelled
obligated
necessary
required
unavoidable
inherent
innate
natural
unconscious
unthinking
thoughtless
impulsive
instinctual
intuitive
uncontrolled
unintentional
unwitting
unaware
involuntary
nonvoluntary
unvoluntary
instinctual
conditioned
habitual
impulsive
unreflecting
unconsidered
unplanned
uncalculated
unmeditated
unintentional
unconscious
involuntary
nonintentional
unthinking
unreflective
instinctive
mechanical
spontaneous
unpremeditated
automatic
compelled
forced
coerced
obligated
required
necessary
unavoidable
inherent
innate
natural
Meaning of Involuntary
The primary meaning of "involuntary" is related to an action or movement that is done without intention or conscious control.
Definitions
- Done without intention or conscious control, especially as a result of instinct, habit, or conditioning
- Done or happening without being planned or intended, often as a result of external circumstances
- Relating to or denoting a muscle or other bodily structure whose action is not under conscious control
Etymology of Involuntary
The word "involuntary" has its roots in the Latin words "in-" meaning "not" or "opposite of" and "voluntarius" meaning "of or pertaining to the will", which is derived from "voluntas" meaning "will" or "desire"
The term has been used in English since the 15th century to describe actions or movements that are not under conscious control
Example Uses
- The patient's involuntary twitching of the leg was a sign of nerve damage
- She made an involuntary noise when she saw the snake
- The company's involuntary bankruptcy was caused by a combination of factors, including poor management and economic downturn
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
voluntary
intentional
deliberate
planned
intended
conscious
willing
purposeful
intended
premeditated
calculated
meditated
reflected
considered
planned
calculated
deliberate
intentional
purposeful
willing
voluntary
conscious
aware
thoughtful
reflective
premeditated
calculated
meditated