Synonym Chooser

How is the word inbred different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of inbred are congenital, hereditary, inborn, and innate. While all these words mean "not acquired after birth," inbred suggests something either acquired from parents by heredity or so deeply rooted and ingrained as to seem acquired in that way.

inbred political loyalties

How are the words congenital and hereditary related as synonyms of inbred?

Both congenital and hereditary refer to what is acquired before or at birth, the former to things acquired during fetal development and the latter to things transmitted from one's ancestors.

a congenital heart murmur
eye color is hereditary

When could inborn be used to replace inbred?

While the synonyms inborn and inbred are close in meaning, inborn suggests a quality or tendency either actually present at birth or so marked and deep-seated as to seem so.

her inborn love of nature

When might innate be a better fit than inbred?

The words innate and inbred are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, innate applies to qualities or characteristics that are part of one's inner essential nature.

an innate sense of fair play

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of inbred It’s middle to upper-middle class, but with pockets of inbred poverty. Christopher Borrelli, Chicago Tribune, 13 Oct. 2022 Highly inbred populations are less resilient to environmental stress and changes. Rina Diane Caballar, Ars Technica, 5 Sep. 2022 Other troubling signs: a significant population of juvenile animals or such inbred or hybrid species as white tigers or ligers, a lion crossed with a tiger. Andrea Sachs, Washington Post, 18 Aug. 2022 This Joan is driven to lead men into battle not by the voices of saints nor a particular fealty to the French monarchy, but by a personal desire for vengeance and an inbred itch for violence. Maureen Corrigan, WSJ, 5 Aug. 2022 See All Example Sentences for inbred
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inbred
Adjective
  • The strategy carries inherent moral challenges and political risks.
    Morgan Lee, Chicago Tribune, 25 July 2025
  • Unfortunately, this scenario represents a national obsession that has no inherent benefits but also portends deep regret for millions.
    Scott Liftman, Boston Herald, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • In addition to banking on inviting celebrities and the intrinsic attractiveness of Lake Como as a luxury destination, the club’s new management also pressed on key partnerships and collaborations with the fashion industry in its brand building.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 30 July 2025
  • With mixed evidence that AI enhances productivity or solves problems, instructors should consider how to expose students to AI tools that can help develop intrinsic motivation toward using the technology.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 29 July 2025
Adjective
  • Just like Coker had steep odds to conquer last year, his path to the Panthers’ roster and then to being an integral part of the offense isn’t without competition.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 1 Aug. 2025
  • The larger issue many families face, however, is not the risk of divorce, but the challenge of what happens when an in-law becomes an integral part of the business and is ineffective in their role.
    Lisa Zeiderman, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Researchers estimate about 6,000 people in the United States live with hereditary angioedema.
    Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 16 July 2025
  • Pandora, a ceramicist and accessories designer, had Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare hereditary syndrome that can increase the risk of several types of cancer.
    Janine Henni, People.com, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • The truth is, digestion is an essential part of the wellness and health conversation.
    Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 15 July 2025
  • Hoka Vibrant Bloom Clifton Sneakers Walking countless miles exploring Mediterranean ports, Hoka's Vibrant Bloom Clifton Sneakers were essential for feeling comfortable.
    Alexis Benveniste, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Inbred.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inbred. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on inbred

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