reflection

noun

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

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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

More than just a reflection, the twin was a physical being: dominating, horrifying, and possessing a mind entirely of her own. — Candice Frederick, Harper's BAZAAR, "Us Offers a Terrifying Vision of Judgement Day," 26 Mar. 2019 Mizrahi’s designs are a reflection of himself: ebullient, upbeat, urbane, and always personal. — Vogue, "Isaac Mizrahi’s New Memoir, I.M., Is No Frockumentary—And the Better for It," 26 Feb. 2019 Clint provides unvarnished, thoughtful reflections on a path that is possible for anyone bold enough to pursue it. — Fox News, "'Handcrafted: A Woodworker's Story' by Clint Harp," 24 Sep. 2018 Cemeteries are a great place for reflection, contemplation, prayer, and quiet. — Paul Daugherty, Cincinnati.com, "Morning Line: Cincinnati Reds' CF Billy Hamilton is underrated as an offensive contributor," 5 July 2018 Buy Photo For many Muslims, Ramadan brings a month of inward reflection, a time to get along with one’s fellow man and perform charitable acts. — Allison Steele, Philly.com, "Ramadan a time for peace, joyful celebration - and nightly feasts," 5 June 2018 With his continuous access to the minds of the public, the president has made almost all political thought either a reflection, rejection, or at least a reaction to his ideas. — Peter Hamby, The Hive, "“That Is What Power Looks Like”: As Trump Prepares for 2020, Democrats Are Losing the Only Fight That Matters," 26 May 2018 Your pulls can be used simply for personal reflection, or even as a prompt for journaling. — Erica Euse, Teen Vogue, "How Tarot Cards Are Used to Help Mental Health," 27 Dec. 2018 But the promise, at least, of vastly more realistic and varied lighting, shadows, reflections, and more? — Ron Amadeo, Ars Technica, "Our favorite (and least favorite) tech of 2018," 26 Dec. 2018

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.