introspective

[ in-truh-spek-tiv ]

adjective

1. characterized by introspection, the act or process of looking into oneself.

Other Words From

• intro·spective·ly adverb
• intro·spective·ness noun
• nonin·tro·spective adjective
• nonin·tro·spective·ly adverb
• nonin·tro·spective·ness noun
• unin·tro·spective adjective
• unin·tro·spective·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of introspective¹

First recorded in 1800–10; from Latin intrōspect(us), past participle of intrōspicere “to look within” + -ive ( def ); introspection ( def )

Example Sentences

On “Spirit 2.0,” he gets even more introspective: “Waves will catch you / Light will catch you / Love will catch you / Spirit gon’ catch you, yeah.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Guardian’s four-star review praised the record’s introspective depth, particularly how it wrestles with “the question of Smith’s own selfhood”.

From BBC

She also kept it introspective, noting that after the January release of her Prime Video film “This Is Me... Now” and completing her latest film, “Unstoppable,” she felt good.

From Los Angeles Times

Obama made his name with soaring oratory about a collective opportunity to fulfill America’s promise and a memoir that was deeply introspective about his role in that fight.

From Los Angeles Times

She was known for her vibrant portraits but shifted to a more introspective and emotional style in these works.

From BBC

Related Words

• reflective
• thoughtful