second nature

noun

Synonyms of second naturenext
: 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.
But such driving is second nature to those racing in Formula E — the all-electric racing series that concluded its 2025-26 championship with a pair of races at London’s ExCeL exhibition center last weekend. Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026 Supporting the easiest payment method on a phone ought to be second nature to mobile-app developers, but too many continue to make this mistake. Rob Pegoraro, PC Magazine, 15 Aug. 2026 In fact, virtual trading is where disciplined risk management becomes second nature. Michael Martin, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 During a March 2025 appearance on Let’s Talk Media, Chase said slipping into Angelica’s voice has become second nature after decades of playing the character. Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 11 Aug. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Second nature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/second%20nature. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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