OpenSynonym

habituation

/həˌbɪtʃuˈeɪʃən/

NOUN

1. The process of becoming accustomed

The process by which a person or animal becomes familiar with a situation, environment, or stimulus through repeated exposure, resulting in reduced sensitivity or response.

1.1. Adaptation to environments and conditions

The gradual process of becoming comfortable or familiar with surroundings, circumstances, or environmental conditions through continued exposure.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The gradual habituation to the constant noise in the city made it feel like home.
  • The researcher observed the animal's behavior during the process of habituation to the unfamiliar surroundings.

Related Words

1.2. Reduced response to repeated stimuli

A psychological and behavioral process in which repeated exposure to an internal or external stimulus, such as a loud noise or unpleasant smell, gradually reduces the response to that stimulus.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The repeated exposure to the soothing music led to a state of deep habituation.
  • Classroom disruptions decreased as a result of the students' habituation to the new seating arrangement.
  • The therapy sessions focused on gradual habituation to confront and overcome specific fears.

Related Words

  • stimulus
  • desensitization
  • sensory adaptation
  • behavioral response
  • repetition
  • neural response

NOUN

2. The act of making someone accustomed

The act or process of deliberately making someone or something familiar with a particular condition, experience, or pattern through repeated exposure or practice.

2.1. Accustoming through repeated practice

The deliberate process of introducing someone or something to a situation repeatedly until it becomes familiar or customary.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The habituation of the animals to human presence required patience and repeated interaction.
  • The training program involved gradual habituation to unfamiliar equipment and procedures.

Related Words