as in melancholy
given to or marked by long, quiet thinking
rainy days often put her in a pensive mood
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of pensive
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
With stories focused on surviving rowdy family, moments of loneliness, struggles with faith, and navigating our deepest human relationships, Johnson’s abilities as a pensive storyteller are conducted masterfully.
—
Tribune News Service,
Baltimore Sun,
22 May 2026
Historically, Rostam solo albums are full of pensive and personal moments—reflections on life while taking long walks, weighing conflicted emotions while lounging in bed—and this one is no exception.
—
Molly Mary O’Brien,
Pitchfork,
15 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for pensive
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
With stories focused on surviving rowdy family, moments of loneliness, struggles with faith, and navigating our deepest human relationships, Johnson’s abilities as a pensive storyteller are conducted masterfully.
—
Tribune News Service,
Baltimore Sun,
22 May 2026
Historically, Rostam solo albums are full of pensive and personal moments—reflections on life while taking long walks, weighing conflicted emotions while lounging in bed—and this one is no exception.
—
Molly Mary O’Brien,
Pitchfork,
15 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for pensive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pensive
Adjective
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Not necessarily the technical side of blues music, but its emotional palette—the melancholy, vulnerability, and depth that live within those shades of blue.
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Daeron Targaryen Daeron Targaryen, otherwise known as Daeron the Drunkard, is a bookish and melancholy Targaryen prince known for his prophetic dreams.
Adjective
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For daily commutes and weekend trips, this versatile pack looks simple but is packed with thoughtful features.
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While no one can eliminate the risks associated with severe weather, thoughtful preparation can reduce those risks substantially.
Adjective
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This transparent pink has a reflective finish that creates a striking shine with one coat.
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Make sure the shiny, reflective side is facing out.
Adjective
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Researchers have demonstrated that contemplative practices associated with emotional regulation can influence both psychological and physiological functioning.
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Its central hub, where the wellness offerings, main dining room and 35 of the 65 bedrooms are located, is invitingly curvaceous, with sci-fi swirls of walls and sparkling swathes of window bookended by two vast, contemplative courtyards.
Adjective
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The film breathes in a dynamic way, the last few beats taking a startling turn toward a somber wistfulness.
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The hilltop De Smet Cemetery strikes a somber note.
Cite this Entry
“Pensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pensive. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.
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