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 Monét’s songwriting process is deeply rooted in introspection and self-discovery. Essence, 26 Oct. 2023 The result is a rare feat in modern-day political reporting: an account in which the subject engages in actual introspection. Michael Luo, The New Yorker, 23 Oct. 2023 Traumatic events often push us toward introspection. Hen Mazzig, Variety, 18 Oct. 2023 The energy of April is one of introspection, slowing down, and spending time in solitude to finally break the curses of our pasts that may have held us back from true contentment. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Nov. 2023 This approach resonates with those who seek a more comprehensive and personalized approach to their health, especially in the case of psychedelic therapies, which can lead to profound introspection and personal growth. Sonia Singh, Rolling Stone, 19 Oct. 2023 Self-reliance was encouraged, but not introspection (navel-gazing, ugh). Sigrid Nunez, Harper's Magazine, 16 Oct. 2023 He is focused on doing what is best for his kids at this point, even if that means undergoing some introspection. Elise Solé, NBC News, 21 Sep. 2023 Here there is an echo of the previous book, a motif of destruction followed by introspection followed by resilience. Gabriel Bump, Washington Post, 18 July 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'introspection.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near introspection

Cite this Entry

“Introspection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/introspection. Accessed 9 Dec. 2023.

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
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