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 of introspection

• soul-searching
• self-reflection
• self-examination
• contemplation
• self-observation
• self-scrutiny
• self-questioning

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

Widely hailed as one of the greatest songwriters to ever live, Lennon left behind a tapestry of art, introspection, memorable moments, and perhaps most poignantly, a vast collection of timeless music that continues to move listeners of every generation to this day. —Alex Heigl, PEOPLE, 8 Dec. 2025

On last year’s Darold, named after his late father, Ferg went deep on introspection, excavating his own emotions and traumas to uncover a clearer picture of himself. —Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 7 Dec. 2025

Explore meditation, prayer or introspection to explore your higher consciousness. —Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 4 Dec. 2025

Her total lack of introspection, at least on the page, is vaguely uncanny. —Michelle Goldberg, Mercury News, 3 Dec. 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