Innate
mediumNeutral toneih-NAYT
adjective
Definition
Inborn; natural; existing from birth
Memory hook
IN-NATE: born IN you - like a baby's innate ability to cry, you had it from day one.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“She had an innate talent for music that manifested early.”
“His innate kindness made him well-loved by everyone.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She had an ______ talent for music that manifested early.”
Show answer
innate
Categories
GRE Tip
Innate is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "inborn" or "inherent" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "acquired".
Related GRE Words
inherent
Existing in something as a permanent, essential, or characteristic attribute
endemic
Regularly found among particular people or in a certain area
intrinsic
Belonging naturally; essential; inherent
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
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