inborn

Inborn is an adjective describing traits, abilities, or characteristics that exist from birth. Inborn attributes are often contrasted with those acquired through learning or experience, though the boundary between genetic inheritance and developmental processes can be complex.

The word derives from in- meaning "not" and born, reflecting the sense that something originates at birth. In many contexts, inborn implies a natural potential that the individual possesses independently of schooling or deliberate training.

In medical and genetic contexts, inborn is used to describe conditions present at birth. For example, inborn errors of metabolism refer to inherited enzymatic disorders. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with congenital or hereditary, though convention distinguishes congenital (originating during development in the womb) from purely inherited predispositions.

In everyday language, inborn is common and carries a slightly softer nuance than innate. Innate and intrinsic are often used as near-synonyms but carry distinct nuance: innate emphasizes a natural faculty; congenital emphasizes a birth condition due to developmental factors. Inborn is most common in everyday language and in some clinical phrases.

Examples: inborn reflexes in infants, such as rooting or grasping reflex, are considered inborn responses. An inborn talent may be observed early but can still be refined by practice; environmental exposure can influence expression.

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