PsychologySeptember 1, 2026

kinesthetic

kin-is-THET-ik

Definition

Relating to the ability to sense or coordinate the position, movement, and tension of one's own body parts.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'kinein' (to move) and 'aisthesis' (sensation). It was coined in the late 19th century to describe the sense that allows for the perception of body movement.

In the news

The article lists 'kinesthetics' as one of the genetically determined factors that provides elite athletes with an innate physical advantage over their competitors. Understanding this helps illustrate that top-level athletic performance is often the result of biological factors outside an individual's control.

Personal Perspective: The psychological stress of political confirmation bias.

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Psychology Today

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