soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ 

: examination of one's conscience especially with regard to motives and values

Synonyms of soul-searching

• introspection
• self-examination
• self-reflection
• self-searching
• self-questioning
• self-scrutiny
• contemplation

Examples of soul-searching in a Sentence

after much soul-searching, they both realized that their marriage was essentially over

Recent Examples on the Web

Throughout these years, Ma began to feel an increasing sense of remorse at his complicity in this system, which sparked deeper soul-searching around his identity as a Muslim, and what that meant within Chinese society. —Rebecca Wright, CNN Money, 27 Feb. 2026

And for all the soul-searching and probing, Conrad is well aware that kink can lead to comedy—up to a point. —Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 22 Jan. 2026

There is no way to tackle these questions without deep reflection and a great deal of soul-searching. —Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 11 Jan. 2026

But there has also been sadness and soul-searching about the place the community has in a neighborhood well known for its Jewish roots, and in Australia’s wider society. —Katie Silver, NBC news, 25 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for soul-searching

• researching
• lurching
• perching
• searching

Kids Definition

soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing

ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ

: examination of one's conscience and especially one's reasons and values