introspection

noun

in·​tro·​spec·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈspek-shən How to pronounce introspection (audio)
: a reflective looking inward : an examination of one's own thoughts and feelings
introspect verb
introspectional adjective

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With hat combination of location and timing (the show had concluded mere hours ago), his exhaustion gives way to a deeper introspection and honesty. Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 2 Sep. 2025 The peace at the end of the recent war with Israel is similarly marked by a lack of Iranian introspection or remorse. Graeme Wood, The Atlantic, 2 Sep. 2025 Task, like Ingelsby’s Mare of Easttown before it, is one that isn’t all weighty introspection despite its heavy themes. EW.com, 26 Aug. 2025 Its six songs, which weave together profound introspection with resolute self-affirmation, are steeped in a folksy warmth à la Leith Ross or Julia Jacklin. Sophie Williams, Billboard, 22 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for introspection

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of introspection was circa 1677

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Introspection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/introspection. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

introspection

noun
in·​tro·​spec·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈspek-shən How to pronounce introspection (audio)
: an examination of one's own thoughts or feelings
introspective adjective
introspectively adverb

Medical Definition

introspection

noun
in·​tro·​spec·​tion -ˈspek-shən How to pronounce introspection (audio)
: an examination of one's own thoughts and feelings
introspectional adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on introspection

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