philosophical
adjective
phil·o·soph·i·cal
ˌfi-lə-ˈsä-fi-kəl 
also -ˈzä-
variants
or less commonly philosophic
ˌfi-lə-ˈsä-fik
also -ˈzä-
1
a
: of or relating to philosophers or philosophy
b
: based on philosophy
2
: characterized by the attitude of a philosopher
specifically
: calm or unflinching in the face of trouble, defeat, or loss
Examples of philosophical in a Sentence
They got into a philosophical debate about what it means for something to be “natural.”
He's trying to be philosophical about their decision since he knows he can't change it.
Recent Examples on the Web
Werber’s intricate world-building and philosophical undercurrents have long been considered unadaptable, but Xilam and UGC have set off crack the beloved novel to deliver a high-concept series aimed at global family audiences, spanning from young viewers to adults who grew up with the bestseller.
—
Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 11 Dec. 2025
Some say the federal budget cuts reflect spending constraints as well as philosophical differences in the role of the federal government.
—Jim Morrill, Charlotte Observer, 11 Dec. 2025
Mars in Sag also squares Neptune in Pisces this week, creating tension between your desire for structured routines and your need for philosophical exploration.
—Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 7 Dec. 2025
While Pennsylvania permits religious, philosophical, and medical exemptions, doctors say the decline falls deeper.
—Jessica Riley, CBS News, 5 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for philosophical
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.
Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 11 Dec. 2025
Some say the federal budget cuts reflect spending constraints as well as philosophical differences in the role of the federal government.
—Jim Morrill, Charlotte Observer, 11 Dec. 2025
Mars in Sag also squares Neptune in Pisces this week, creating tension between your desire for structured routines and your need for philosophical exploration.
—Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 7 Dec. 2025
While Pennsylvania permits religious, philosophical, and medical exemptions, doctors say the decline falls deeper.
—Jessica Riley, CBS News, 5 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for philosophical
Cite this Entry
“Philosophical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/philosophical. Accessed 16 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share