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

Dupuis’ introspection is always tethered to a greater sense of community. — Grace Robins-Somerville, Pitchfork, 14 July 2026

Parts of the novel, especially those evoking Michel’s introspection, have a Jamesian density of psychological nuance. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 9 July 2026

All of it comes together in their new album in a rich symphonic display that creates tension, emotion, introspection, and revelry and that tells a deep narrative through sound, one that even the addition of lyrics couldn’t improve on. — Selena Fragassi, SPIN, 9 July 2026

That’s why introspection and self-knowledge are at the core of every spiritual and philosophical tradition—the drive not just to know the world but to know ourselves, with each layer of self-knowledge unlocking a deeper one. — Arianna Huffington, Time, 29 June 2026

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