pensive

adjective

ˈpen(t)-siv How to pronounce pensive (audio)
Definition of pensivenext
as in melancholy
given to or marked by long, quiet thinking rainy days often put her in a pensive mood

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pensive That’s followed by some pensive, unaccompanied trumpet, also by Wooley, the former University of Denver Lamont School of Music student who’s gone on to an impactful, creative career. — Bret Saunders, Denver Post, 6 June 2026 This summer’s take on beachy perfumes encapsulates the calming, pensive, and healing nature of the seashore. — Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 3 June 2026 Another shot included here shows a more pensive Marilyn on set, waiting to spring to life. — Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 1 June 2026 Ava takes herself for a pensive solo walk in comically wide pants. — Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for pensive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pensive
  1. melancholy
  2. thoughtful
  3. reflective
  4. contemplative
  5. somber
Adjective
  • Elsewhere, sharp use is made of a playful score by longtime Johnson collaborator Jay McCarrol, with sleepy piano passages echoing underlying notes of melancholy.
    — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 29 July 2026
  • The resulting track carries a hint of classic Athens melancholy while centering on one of Chura’s most hopeful songs to date.
    — SPIN Staff, SPIN, 23 July 2026
Definition of melancholy
Adjective
  • Through movement, restoration, thoughtful hospitality and a profound connection to the California coast, each stay becomes an opportunity to return home feeling renewed.
    — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 31 July 2026
  • While our designers both agree that bare wooden stairs are a style and safety issue, Spalding prefers to incorporate the practicality of carpet on stairs with a thoughtful runner.
    — The Spruce, The Spruce, 30 July 2026
Definition of thoughtful
Adjective
  • The set balanced crowd favorites with deeper cuts, moving comfortably between reflective moments and full-throttle rockers.
    — Jamie Graziano, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026
  • The exterior material has a glossy, highly reflective, mirrorlike patent leather sheen.
    — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 31 July 2026
Definition of reflective
Adjective
  • The Final Painting fittingly has a contemplative tone, with slow, spellbound songs that seem both off-the-cuff and profoundly lived in.
    — Reed Jackson, SPIN, 31 July 2026
  • The animation perfectly complements its contemplative pace, drawing us deeper into its haunting world.
    — William Earl, Variety, 25 July 2026
Definition of contemplative
Adjective
  • For the past four decades, July was always a somber month for the McDonalds, a reminder of the moment that changed their family's lives.
    — Ali Bauman, CBS News, 31 July 2026
  • Less than two months after her historic victory to become Japan’s first female prime minister, Takaichi Sanae stood before a bank of microphones and opposition lawmakers, looking somber.
    — Ann Scott Tyson, Christian Science Monitor, 29 July 2026
Definition of somber

Browse Nearby Words

pensions
pensive
penstock
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Cite this Entry

“Pensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pensive. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on pensive

Nglish: Translation of pensive for Spanish Speakers

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