introspection

[in-truh-spek-shuhn]

noun

1. observation or examination of one's own mental and emotional state, mental processes, etc.; the act of looking within oneself.

   Synonyms: soul-searching, self-examination

2. the tendency or disposition to do this.

3. sympathetic introspection.

introspection

/ ˌɪntrəˈspɛkʃən /

noun

1. the examination of one's own thoughts, impressions, and feelings, esp for long periods

Other Word Forms

• introspectional adjective
• introspectionist noun
• introspectively adverb
• introspectiveness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of introspection¹

First recorded in 1670–80; from Latin intrōspect(us) “looked within” (past participle of intrōspicere “to look within,” from intrō- intro- + -spicere, combining form of specere “to see, observe, look”) + -iō -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of introspection¹

C17: from Latin intrōspicere to look within, from _intro- + specere to look

Example Sentences

But a fresh listen to “Listen Without Prejudice” reveals a deeply personal record that’s interested in defining itself by introspection and progress.

From Salon

Right now, though, I've lost him to the record store's vinyl bins, picking out old favourites by the Stone Roses, Brand New Heavies and Cypress Hill - and prompting a moment of introspection.

From BBC

I would’ve never guessed that someone who looked like him would listen to music with such introspection.

From Los Angeles Times

Unlike daily comic strips, political cartoons were intended to stay with the reader long after they’d turned the page, becoming a source of conversation and introspection that could take place throughout the day.

From Salon

South Africa have a habit of forcing introspection in English cricket.

From BBC

Related Words

• contemplation 
• meditation 
• reflection 
• scrutiny 
• self-examination 
• soul-searching