self-reflexive

adjective

self-re·​flex·​ive ˌself-ri-ˈflek-siv 

: marked by or making reference to its own artificiality or contrivance

self-reflexive fiction

self-reflexively adverb

self-reflexiveness noun

self-reflexivity

ˌself-ˌrē-ˌflek-ˈsi-və-tē 

-ri-

noun

Examples of self-reflexive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The self-reflexive qualities of the work go further, and the film can surely be read as a statement about the limits and possibilities of a totally analogue and backwards-gazing practice. — Sam Bodrojan, IndieWire, 17 June 2026

Though soaps were not without their occasional levity, the earnest self-seriousness of their proceedings often prevented them from engaging in self-reflexive critique. — Literary Hub, 18 May 2026

However, the rich subtext of its casting adds a whole new layer that often promises to supersede these self-reflexive gestures. — Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 17 Feb. 2026

An inventive, self-reflexive director, necessity has forced Panahi to stretch the boundaries of film and contort it into new forms. — Thomas Page, CNN Money, 16 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-reflexive

• reflexive