introspective

adjective

in·​tro·​spec·​tive ˌin-trə-ˈspek-tiv 

: characterized by examination of one's own thoughts and feelings : thoughtfully reflective : employing, marked by, or tending to introspection

As a student, he was very quiet and introspective.

… encouraging a balance between the fast, upbeat songs and a band's more introspective side.

—David T. Lindsay

There's an interesting literature that suggests that when people are sad, they tend to pay attention to themselves. They become withdrawn and introspective and very aware of their body and their mind and not very aware of the external world.

—Peter Salovey

introspectively adverb

This whole episode set me thinking introspectively, and led me gradually but imperatively to self-analysis—not of powers, but of motives.

—Bram Stoker

introspectiveness noun

Introversion is too often considered a sign of weakness when it should instead be an indication of strength, and associated with thoughtfulness, introspectiveness and independence.

—Jasmine Tatah

Examples of introspective in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Instead, a successful detox often leaves people feeling introspective and curious. —Discover Magazine, 7 Nov. 2024

As Mercury transitions from the depths of Scorpio into the free-spirited realm of Sagittarius, our mental energy shifts from introspective and suspicious to hopeful and expansive. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 Nov. 2024

Formed in 1978, the group has continually reinvented itself while staying true to its dark, introspective style. Stream Songs of a Lost World below. —Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 1 Nov. 2024

However, after some time, the conversation takes a turn—and your attempts at friendly, introspective small talk have been deflected. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above