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

From Hype to Humility: AI Hits a Human Roadblock If 2024 was the year of AI hyperbole, 2025 is shaping up as the year of introspection. —Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025

Soon after the pandemic hit, Lamm, who travels constantly, got covid, which led to a moment of introspection. —D. T. Max, New Yorker, 7 Apr. 2025

Rediscover your personal brand through introspection to get clear on your values, purpose, superpowers and differentiation. —William Arruda, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025

Rediscover your personal brand through introspection to get clear on your values, purpose, superpowers and differentiation. —William Arruda, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025

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

Rhymes for introspection

• circumspection
• disaffection
• disconnection
• disinfection
• dorsiflexion
• imperfection
• indirection
• insurrection
• intellection
• interjection
• intersection
• introjection

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