involuntary impulse

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.

Springing into a sitting posture, and by an involuntary impulse reaching out my hand for my gun which lay close to me, I beheld a sight that was calculated to appal the stoutest heart.

From The Gorilla Hunters by Ballantyne, R. M. (Robert Michael)

At the same moment, by an involuntary impulse, I threw off my covering, and, turning my face, fixed my eyes upon my visitant.

From Arthur Mervyn Or, Memoirs of the Year 1793 by Brown, Charles Brockden

Well, but what was the result of this involuntary impulse on my part?—Wouldst thou not think; I was taken at my offer?—An offer so solemnly made, and on one knee too?

From Clarissa Harlowe; or the history of a young lady — Volume 3 by Richardson, Samuel

Nor can any one be surprised or scandalized, if I acknowledge my weakness in stating that I could not resist an involuntary impulse to laugh at them "in my sleeve."

From Auricular Confession and Popish Nunneries Volumes I. and II., Complete by Hogan, William

As they approached the mainland, all, as if by involuntary impulse, looked back at the haunted island, looming darkly in the night.

From The Forest Runners A Story of the Great War Trail in Early Kentucky by Altsheler, Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander)