Definitions

gut reaction

NOUN

immediate response

Synonyms

WEAK

Pavlovian response knee-jerk reflex spontaneous reaction unthinking response

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.

“My immediate gut reaction was, ‘No,’” Colton said.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 14, 2025

Aymann Ismail: What was your gut reaction to the news of the pardons?

From Slate • Jan. 21, 2025

I have a very gut reaction to things and if it's not a 'Hell yes!' it's usually a 'No'.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2024

"This way, we're measuring gut reaction to the light turning on -- which hand will you use on the spot?"

From Science Daily • Nov. 16, 2023

My gut reaction is to volunteer just so I can look after Garrett.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman