reflecting

[ ri-flek-ting ]

adjective

1. casting back light, heat, sound, etc., from a surface:

   An echo is heard when the reflecting surface is at a considerable distance from both the speaker and the hearer.

2. having a mirrorlike effect; giving back or showing an image:

   The most memorable feature of Hadrian’s Villa for me was the reflecting pool at the back, surrounded by ruins and statues.

3. thinking, pondering, or meditating:

   It is apparent to every reflecting mind that a crisis has arisen which requires the consideration and action of every peace-loving citizen.

noun

1. an act or instance of casting back light, heat, etc., of giving back an image, or of showing or reproducing something:

   This room feels almost like it's under the sea; the mirror mimics the reflecting of the water.

2. an act or instance of thinking, pondering, or meditating:

   We have been doing some reflecting on the year that has just passed.

Other Words From

• re·flect·ing·ly adverb
• non·re·flect·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of reflecting¹

First recorded in 1525–35; reflect ( def ) + -ing ²( def ) for the adjective senses; reflect ( def ) + -ing ¹( def ) for the noun senses

Example Sentences

There was no surprise that the rate of inflation jumped again, reflecting the recent hike in the energy price cap.

From BBC

Emotional responses to cash transactions include sadness and guilt, reflecting a deeper psychological connection to physical money.

From Science Daily

Each iteration of the show is different, reflecting a cast that changes from year to year.

From Los Angeles Times

One of the main showcases for UK gaming has been cancelled, reflecting the wider struggles of an industry which has seen a series of job cuts and studio closures.

From BBC

Attending the Church’s national assembly, its General Synod, is eye-opening in the ferocity of debate over issues across the board, often reflecting the polarisation in modern Britain on many issues.

From BBC

Related Words

• analytical
• attentive
• cerebral
• earnest
• melancholy
• pensive
• rational
• reasonable
• reflective
• serious
• sober
• studious
• wise