introspection

in·tro·spec·tion

noun \ˌin-trə-ˈspek-shən\

Definition of INTROSPECTION

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

— in·tro·spect \-ˈspekt\ verb

— in·tro·spec·tion·al \-ˈspek-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective

— in·tro·spec·tive \-ˈspek-tiv\ adjective

— in·tro·spec·tive·ly adverb

— in·tro·spec·tive·ness noun

Examples of INTROSPECTION

1. a moment of quiet introspection
2. <not a man given to introspection, he grew impatient with his wife's constant need to discuss their relationship>

Origin of INTROSPECTION

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

First Known Use: circa 1677

Related to INTROSPECTION

Synonyms: self-contemplation, self-examination, self-observation, self-questioning, self-reflection, self-scrutiny, self-searching, soul-searching

Related Words: self-analysis, self-awareness, self-consciousness, self-recognition; introversion, self-absorption, self-centeredness, self-concern, self-involvement; self-actualization, self-discovery, self-exploration, self-fulfillment, self-realization; self-knowledge, self-revelation; self-concept, self-image, self-perception; contemplation, meditation, reflection, rumination

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Other Psychology Terms

fetish, hypochondria, intelligence, mania, narcissism, neurosis, pathological, psychosis, schadenfreude, subliminal