reflection

noun

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re·flec·tion | \ ri-ˈflek-shən

Definition of reflection

1 : an instance of reflecting especially : the return of light or sound waves from a surface

2 : the production of an image by or as if by a mirror

3a : the action of bending or folding back

b : a reflected part : fold

4 : something produced by reflecting: such as

a : an image given back by a reflecting surface

b : an effect produced by an influence the high crime rate is a reflection of our violent society

5 : an often obscure or indirect criticism : reproach a reflection on his character

6 : a thought, idea, or opinion formed or a remark made as a result of meditation

7 : consideration of some subject matter, idea, or purpose

8 obsolete : turning back : return

9a : a transformation of a figure in which each point is replaced by a point symmetric with respect to a line or plane

b : a transformation that involves reflection in more than one axis of a rectangular coordinate system

Other Words from reflection Synonyms More Example Sentences Phrases Containing reflection Learn More About reflection

Examples of reflection in a Sentence

She was looking at her reflection in the mirror. He saw the reflections of the clouds on the lake.

Recent Examples on the Web Striking prose and unforgettable characters—including a young Black woman in relentless pursuit of justice—make for a shocking page-turner and timely reflection. — Véronique Hyland, ELLE, 18 May 2022 The processes of reflection, refraction, and diffraction of light can produce some really interesting things in the sky. — Marshall Shepherd, Forbes, 17 May 2022 For the open-minded, Mr. Dugatkin’s depiction of power in the wild yields a stunningly provocative reflection. — David P. Barash, WSJ, 17 May 2022 People visit the abbey’s Benedictine monks in search of reflection, tranquility and a deeper connection with the divine. — oregonlive, 14 May 2022 Amidst the reflection were four hard-fought basketball games with an intensity that far exceeded the typical All-Star competition. — Ethan Fuller, BostonGlobe.com, 13 May 2022 Also in this issue is senior correspondent Justin Worland’s reflection on a new film, Black Gold, produced by TIME Studios and Darren Aronofsky’s Protozoa Pictures. — Edward Felsenthal, Time, 12 May 2022 Or simply a reflection from lights that played a trick on the eyes? — Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 12 May 2022 The reflection of this kaleidoscopic effect of Latin America. — Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'reflection.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.