introspective

adjective

in·​tro·​spec·​tive ˌin-trə-ˈspek-tiv How to pronounce introspective (audio)
: characterized by examination of one's own thoughts and feelings : thoughtfully reflective : employing, marked by, or tending to introspection
As a student, he was very quiet and introspective.
… encouraging a balance between the fast, upbeat songs and a band's more introspective side.David T. Lindsay
There's an interesting literature that suggests that when people are sad, they tend to pay attention to themselves. They become withdrawn and introspective and very aware of their body and their mind and not very aware of the external world.Peter Salovey
introspectively adverb
This whole episode set me thinking introspectively, and led me gradually but imperatively to self-analysis—not of powers, but of motives. Bram Stoker
introspectiveness noun
Introversion is too often considered a sign of weakness when it should instead be an indication of strength, and associated with thoughtfulness, introspectiveness and independence. Jasmine Tatah

Examples of introspective in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Carmelo, who could incorporate a moment or two of introspective reflection in her uncompromisingly ferocious portrayal, will travel with the rest of the cast to Washington, D.C. Bean’s Tom bristles at the way Wynona plays the race card. Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2025 Starting with your celestial ruler, Venus, entering Aries on Feb. 4 — a sign where the love planet is in detriment — its journey through your introspective 12th house forces you to face emotional baggage and unconscious relationship patterns holding you back. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 5 Feb. 2025 Her music—introspective, and unabashed pride in her Black identity—has created a global cult fanbase. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 3 Feb. 2025 The founders, who are fans of alternative living (think vegan menus and lots of yoga mats), aspired to weave together indulgent beach vacation activities like pool lounging and frolicking on white sands with more introspective, spiritual elements. Devorah Lev-Tov, AFAR Media, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for introspective 

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of introspective was in 1819

Dictionary Entries Near introspective

Cite this Entry

“Introspective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/introspective. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

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