thoughtful

adjective

thought·​ful ˈthȯt-fəl 

1

a

: absorbed in thought : meditative

b

: characterized by careful reasoned thinking

a thoughtful essay

2

a

: having thoughts : heedful

became thoughtful about religion

b

: given to or chosen or made with heedful anticipation of the needs and wants of others

a kind and thoughtful friend

thoughtfully

ˈthȯt-fə-lē 

adverb

thoughtfulness noun

Synonyms of thoughtful

• attentive
• kind
• caring
• respectful
• considerate

Examples of thoughtful in a Sentence

She looked at me with a thoughtful expression.

He looked thoughtful for a moment.

Her husband is always thoughtful.

That's very thoughtful of you.

Recent Examples on the Web

The compact pouch is designed to hold small essentials against your body, and its soft, breathable, skin-friendly fabric is a thoughtful detail for warmer destinations where extra layers aren’t practical. — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 8 Nov. 2026

But my son’s daughter, a wonderful, kind, thoughtful 25-year-old, refuses to meet or talk to the other woman. — R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 7 Nov. 2026

The best designs combine thoughtful craftsmanship, sturdy construction, and a little personality. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 7 Nov. 2026

The service Round-the-clock red-carpet treatment delivered by warm, thoughtful, professional staff is what makes The Peninsula tick. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

thoughtful

adjective

thought·​ful ˈthȯt-fəl 

1

a

: lost in thought

b

: marked by careful thinking

a thoughtful essay

2

: considerate of the needs of others

a kind and thoughtful friend

thoughtfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

thoughtfulness noun