soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ 

: examination of one's conscience especially with regard to motives and values

Synonyms of soul-searching

• introspection
• self-examination
• self-reflection
• self-searching
• self-questioning
• self-scrutiny
• contemplation

Examples of soul-searching in a Sentence

after much soul-searching, they both realized that their marriage was essentially over

Recent Examples on the Web

In stressed markets undergoing soul-searching about the long-term bullish thesis, prices often need to travel further to find buyers with conviction while the market action must disappoint dip-buyers to extinguish complacency. — Michael Santoli, CNBC, 3 Nov. 2026

Your soul-searching is concluding mid-month, backed up by plenty of receipts and evidence of what really transpired. — Steph Koyfman, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2026

Crowley won the primary by a half percentage point — roughly 3,800 votes — illustrating Democrats’ soul-searching in the Upper Midwestern swing state. — ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026

The tragedy has prompted soul-searching in the world of TV news helicopter pilots and focused attention on safety issues. — Los Angeles Times, 19 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for soul-searching

• researching
• lurching
• perching
• searching

Kids Definition

soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing

ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ

: examination of one's conscience and especially one's reasons and values