Main Entry: re·flect

Pronunciation: \ri-ˈflekt\

Function: verb

Etymology: Middle English, from Latin reflectere to bend back, from re- + flectere to bend

Date: 15th century

transitive verb 1 archaic : to turn into or away from a course : deflect
2 : to prevent passage of and cause to change direction <a mirror reflects light>
3 : to bend or fold back
4 : to give back or exhibit as an image, likeness, or outline : mirror <the clouds were reflected in the water>
5 : to bring or cast as a result <his attitude reflects little credit on his judgment>
6 : to make manifest or apparent : show <the painting reflects his artistic vision> <the pulse reflects the condition of the heart>
7 : realize, considerintransitive verb 1 : to throw back light or sound
2 a : to think quietly and calmly b : to express a thought or opinion resulting from reflection
3 a : to tend to bring reproach or discredit <an investigation that reflects on all the members of the department> b : to bring about a specified appearance or characterization <an act which reflects well on her> c : to have a bearing or influence

synonyms see think