introspection

noun

in·​tro·​spec·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈspek-shən 

: a reflective looking inward : an examination of one's own thoughts and feelings

introspect

ˌin-trə-ˈspekt 

verb

introspectional

ˌin-trə-ˈspek-sh(ə-)nəl 

-shə-nᵊl

adjective

Synonyms

• self-contemplation
• self-examination
• self-observation
• self-questioning
• self-reflection
• self-scrutiny
• self-searching
• soul-searching

Examples of introspection in a Sentence

a moment of quiet introspection

not a man given to introspection, he grew impatient with his wife's constant need to discuss their relationship

Recent Examples on the Web

Lastly, revolutionary Uranus will enter Gemini—your 12th house of subconscious inner workings—as of July 7, launching a long period of spiritual introspection that lasts until 2033. —Roya Backlund, StyleCaster, 23 Dec. 2024

Be Introspective In times of change or disruption, natural or otherwise, introspection is critical. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

There is also an open-air restaurant, a bathing pool designed for quiet introspection, and a hammam spa with multiple chambers to experience water in different, restorative ways. —Emily Hochberg, Travel + Leisure, 18 Dec. 2024

Bhakta Spirits founder Raj Bhakta isn’t exactly known for introspection, at least as far as his public persona is concerned. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 15 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin introspectus, past participle of introspicere to look inside, from intro- + specere to look — more at spy

First Known Use

circa 1677, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

introspection

noun

in·​tro·​spec·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈspek-shən 

: an examination of one's own thoughts or feelings

introspective

-ˈspek-tiv 

adjective

introspectively adverb

Medical Definition

introspection

noun

in·​tro·​spec·​tion -ˈspek-shən 

: an examination of one's own thoughts and feelings

introspectional

-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl 

adjective