# predisposed

/ˌpɹidɪˈspoʊzd/ (US) · /pɹiːdɪspˈəʊzd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/predisposed
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

having a natural tendency or a higher chance of developing a certain habit, illness, or feeling. It often describes things you are born with or things that run in your family.

For teachers: having a natural tendency or susceptibility to a particular condition, behavior, or emotion. Often used in medical or psychological contexts to describe inherited or environmental factors.

## Examples

- He is genetically predisposed to heart disease.
- Because of her family history, she is predisposed to developing certain allergies later in life.
- While the environment plays a significant role in development, many researchers argue that certain individuals are genetically predisposed to specific behavioral patterns regardless of their upbringing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.