Hardwired/ˌhɑːrdˈwaɪərd/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Force Suggests an innate or natural behavior that feels automatic. The mother's instinct to protect her child is hardwired. Pro Tip 2/3Not Learned Indicates a trait or reaction not gained from experience or education. Birds are hardwired to migrate with the seasons. Pro Tip 3/3Permanence Implies that the characteristic or function is permanent and cannot be altered. His drive to succeed seems hardwired and unchangeable.