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Showing results for involuntary. Search instead for unvoluntary.
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

Critics of involuntary civil-commitment programs argue they violate civil liberties and stigmatize mental illness.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

“California has both the right and the responsibility to ensure that every involuntary residential facility meets fundamental standards of safety, sanitation, and humane treatment.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 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

Mrs. Bohannon let out an involuntary sob and covered her mouth.

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.