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Showing results for involuntary. Search instead for involunta.
Definitions

involuntary

[in-vol-uhn-ter-ee] / ɪnˈvɒl ənˌtɛr i /
ADJECTIVE
automatic; not done willingly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
compulsory forced spontaneous uncontrolled unintentional
WEAK
automatic begrudging blind conditioned grudging habitual impulsive instinctive instinctual knee-jerk obligatory reflex reflexive reluctant uncalculated unconscious unintended unmeditated unpremeditated unprompted unthinking unwilling unwitting will-less
Antonyms
STRONGEST
deliberate intended planned voluntary
WEAK
conscious intentional unforced

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A last resort would be a conservatorship, which is an involuntary process and takes place when a person is unable to take care of their finances.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

“There is an involuntary review,” he says, “in between the multiple times per day I nap. But it’s not a grieving lament.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

A regional court in Katowice sentenced one, who was also charged with causing involuntary manslaughter, to 18 months in prison and barred him from practicing medicine for six years.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

The US TV comedy show depicted a series of controversial celebrities blaming their behaviour on the condition, which can cause involuntary verbal tics.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

The wolf stared at him, a furious look painted across his long face, making Jack take an involuntary step backward.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley