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
  • 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
  • His style, though, is still idiosyncratic—a particular mix of bedroom melancholy and broadband corruption.
    — Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 22 July 2026
Definition of melancholy
Adjective
  • Rather than rushing from port to port, Explora Journeys was designed around the idea that luxury is measured by space, time, and thoughtful experiences.
    — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 24 July 2026
  • Each chamber in the intimate inn has its own character, and pairs thoughtful amenities with tech-forward convenience.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 July 2026
Definition of thoughtful
Adjective
  • Silbiger’s portfolio is a reflective combination of classic American motifs like Saguaro cacti and herds of bison, and odd roadside attractions like the inflatable Maine lobster.
    — Sarah Silbiger, CNN Money, 25 July 2026
  • The students get permission from the schools to draw on the blackboards in advance, reflective of Japan’s conformist orderly culture.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 July 2026
Definition of reflective
Adjective
  • The animation perfectly complements its contemplative pace, drawing us deeper into its haunting world.
    — William Earl, Variety, 25 July 2026
  • In a statement, LACMA director and CEO Michael Govan connected Celmins’s blend of realism and imagination with Villeneuve’s contemplative and cerebral films.
    — Leigh Anne Miller, ARTnews.com, 15 July 2026
Definition of contemplative
Adjective
  • Later, Ethel Cain provides a warm yet somber comedown in the early evening with her brand of folk-pop.
    — Britt Julious, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026
  • The ritual is one of the most somber duties of a commander-in-chief.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 22 July 2026
Definition of somber

Browse Nearby Words

pensions
pensive
penstock
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pensive. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on pensive

Nglish: Translation of pensive for Spanish Speakers

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