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hardwired

adjective

/ˈhɑrdˈwaɪərd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of hardwired

Inherently or permanently ingrained, programmed, or instinctive.
"The desire to protect one's offspring is hardwired into most animal species."

Detailed meaning of hardwired

It often refers to a characteristic, behavior, or trait that is deeply embedded within a person or system, usually as a result of innate factors or long-established patterns. The term "hardwired" originates from the field of electronics, where it describes a fixed and unchangeable connection between components. In a broader sense, it can be applied to various contexts, such as human behavior, psychological tendencies, or natural instincts. When something is described as hardwired, it suggests that it is deeply rooted and difficult to alter or modify, reflecting a fundamental and unyielding aspect of its nature.

Example sentences containing hardwired

1. Despite efforts to change, his response to danger was hardwired, causing him to instinctively flee.
2. Her meticulous attention to detail seemed hardwired, as if she couldn't help but notice every imperfection.
3. The instinct for self-preservation is hardwired in humans, prompting us to avoid potential threats.
4. Some individuals are hardwired to be more prone to risk-taking behavior.
5. His love for music was hardwired into his DNA, as both his parents were musicians.
6. The fear of the dark is hardwired into our primitive brains, a remnant of our ancestors' survival instincts.

History and etymology of hardwired

The adjective 'hardwired' is a term derived from the world of electronics and computing, and it has been adapted into the realm of human behavior to describe something that is inherently or permanently ingrained, programmed, or instinctive. In electronics, 'hardwired' refers to the physical connection of electrical circuits or components, as opposed to software or firmware that can be reprogrammed. When applied to human behavior or characteristics, 'hardwired' suggests that certain traits, instincts, or behaviors are deeply ingrained in a person's nature, much like the unchangeable physical connections in electronic circuits. While the word's etymology is rooted in the world of technology, it has found its place in describing aspects of human nature that are considered to be innate or instinctual, emphasizing their unalterable and fundamental nature.

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Further usage examples of hardwired

1. The child's curiosity was hardwired, always seeking to explore and discover new things.
2. The inclination to seek social connection and form bonds is hardwired in humans.
3. The belief in a higher power seems hardwired in many cultures throughout history.
4. The baby's ability to recognize its mother's voice was hardwired from birth.
5. Our bodies have a hardwired response to stress, triggering the release of hormones to prepare for fight or flight.
6. The preference for sweet tastes is hardwired in our taste buds, a survival mechanism for seeking energy-rich foods.
7. The need for sleep is hardwired in our bodies, ensuring we get the rest we require to function properly.
8. The reflex to blink when something approaches our eyes is hardwired and automatic.
9. The instinct to protect our loved ones is hardwired, often overriding rational decision-making.
10. The human brain is hardwired to recognize faces, allowing us to distinguish individuals from one another.
11. The urge to eat when hungry is hardwired in our bodies as a basic survival mechanism.
12. The aversion to bitter tastes is hardwired in many animals as a way to avoid potentially toxic substances.
13. The instinctual fear of heights is hardwired in some people, causing a strong physical and emotional response.
14. Our survival instincts are hardwired into our brains.
15. He seemed hardwired to always seek adventure and risk.
16. The love for music seemed hardwired into her soul.
17. Our desire for social connection is hardwired as humans.
18. His competitive spirit was hardwired from a young age.
19. The need for sleep is hardwired in our circadian rhythms.
20. Cats are hardwired to hunt, even as domestic pets.
21. Our fear of heights may be hardwired for self-preservation.
22. Empathy and compassion are hardwired into our humanity.
23. The reflex to pull away from pain is hardwired in us.
24. Our bodies are hardwired to react to stress with a fight-or-flight response.