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

The group’s musical soul-searching is what gets most attention in the ReLoad box set. — Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 27 June 2026

Carmy vowed to get the restaurant out of debt before savoring some soul-searching and crafting a new recipe for success. — Erin Jensen, USA Today, 24 June 2026

The results have wide-ranging implications for the Democratic Party, which has been in a period of soul-searching since the suffering sweeping loses in the 2024 elections. — Hailey Bullis, The Washington Examiner, 24 June 2026

Sencer is thrilled at this milestone, four decades after that soul-searching moment at the hatchery with his daughter. — Christine Ro, Forbes.com, 12 June 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