reflects; reflected; reflecting
1
a
of light, sound, etc.
: to move in one direction, hit a surface, and then quickly move in a different and usually opposite direction
—usually + off
The light reflected off the mirror.
The sound of our voices reflected off the walls of the tunnel.
b
Note: When a surface reflects light, sound, or heat, it causes the light, sound, or heat that hits it to move or bounce away in a different direction.
2
: to show the image of (something) on a surface
The old church is reflected in the glass exterior of the skyscraper.
The clouds were reflected [=mirrored] in the surface of the lake.
3
: to show (something) : to make (something) known
Her book clearly reflects her beliefs.
Where you learned a language is reflected in your accent.
4
a
: to cause people to think of someone or something in a specified way
—+ on or upon
The book leaves out things that might reflect badly/poorly on him. [=things that might make him look bad]
Your achievement reflects well on your school. = Your achievement reflects credit on your school. [=your achievement shows that your school taught you well]
b
: to cause people to disapprove of someone or something
—+ on or upon
His bad behavior reflects on all of us.
5
a
: to think carefully about something
You should take some time to reflect before you make a decision.
—often + on or uponI've been reflecting on my experiences here.
b
: to think or say (something) after careful thought
She was disappointed with their decision, but she reflected that it could have been worse.
"It could have been worse," she reflected.
Cite this Entry
“Reflect.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/reflect. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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