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

The love planet will glimmer through your mystical 12th house of closure and introspection until June 17, adding a dreamy layer to your love life and romantic exchanges. —Valerie Mesa, Peoplemag, 7 June 2024

As always, his figures are shrouded in doubt, at the heart of profound introspection. —Lolita Mang, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 May 2024

Yet there is very little evidence that the United States’ national security institutions are interested in painful introspection or reform. —Eliot A. Cohen, Foreign Affairs, 19 Apr. 2022

The album’s themes include a journey through confidence and introspection, self-acceptance and personal growth. —Spin Staff, SPIN, 29 May 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