reflective

[ ri-flek-tiv ]

adjective

1. that reflects; reflecting.
2. of or relating to reflection.
3. cast by reflection.
4. given to, marked by, or concerned with meditation or deliberation:

   a reflective person.

   Synonyms: thoughtful, contemplative

reflective

/ rɪˈflɛktɪv /

adjective

1. characterized by quiet thought or contemplation
2. capable of reflecting

   a reflective surface

3. produced by reflection

Derived Forms

• reˈflectively, adverb

Other Words From

• re·flective·ly adverb
• re·flective·ness re·flec·tiv·i·ty [ree-flek-, tiv, -i-tee], noun
• anti·re·flective adjective
• anti·re·flective·ly adverb
• anti·re·flective·ness noun
• nonre·flective adjective
• nonre·flective·ly adverb
• nonre·flective·ness noun
• over·re·flective adjective
• over·re·flective·ly adverb
• over·re·flective·ness noun
• self-re·flective adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of reflective¹

First recorded in 1620–30; reflect + -ive

Synonym Study

See pensive.

Example Sentences

We aim to keep the menu dynamic and reflective of what’s available.

From Salon

He added that the 26 bishops in the Lords only come from England and are "probably not reflective of today's world".

From BBC

They added it was interesting that great white sharks were less attracted to the most conspicuous lights because other studies have found some species were drawn to bright, reflective objects.

From BBC

He says offers have been flooding in from talent across the state, which has served as a “stronghold of resistance for smart conservative thinkers who love our country and desire to play a role in making it more reflective of our electorate”.

From BBC

The vibe at Clinton’s event at Javits Center in New York started jubilantly, with people dancing, smiling and eager to make history — the campaign had even planned to launch reflective confetti in the air when Clinton won to resemble a glass ceiling shattering.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contemplative
• deliberate
• meditative
• studious