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 They become withdrawn and introspective and very aware of their body and their mind and not very aware of the external world.Peter Salovey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
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Along the way, Eli, the more introspective of the two, begins to reconsider their violent lifestyle, leading to mounting strain between him and the impulsive, hard-drinking Charlie. Travis Bean, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025 How extroverts can become more like ambiverts For extroverts, this is all about developing the skills to thrive in quieter, more introspective moments. Stefan Falk, Contributor, CNBC, 21 Feb. 2025 Counsell, who was introspective after a mediocre 83-79 record in his first year of a record five-year, $40 million deal, admitted a hiccup with his communication skills after Suzuki brought it up earlier in a group interview. Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 14 Feb. 2025 The tranquil setting and the studio’s distinctive character influenced the album’s introspective and atmospheric qualities. Shaun Fabos, Rolling Stone, 10 Feb. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Introspective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/introspective. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

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