introspection

noun

in·​tro·​spec·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈspek-shən 

: a reflective looking inward : an examination of one's own thoughts and feelings

introspect

ˌin-trə-ˈspekt 

verb

introspectional

ˌin-trə-ˈspek-sh(ə-)nəl 

-shə-nᵊl

adjective

Synonyms

• self-contemplation
• self-examination
• self-observation
• self-questioning
• self-reflection
• self-scrutiny
• self-searching
• soul-searching

Examples of introspection in a Sentence

a moment of quiet introspection

not a man given to introspection, he grew impatient with his wife's constant need to discuss their relationship

Recent Examples on the Web

So far, the party does not appear to be headed down a path of deep introspection. —Catherine Porter, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2025

Guide Teams To Lead From The Inside Out Leaders must cultivate a culture where introspection and self-awareness are valued. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025

A day later, the police shot dead an innocent suspect, Jean Charles de Menezes, leading to protests, introspection over shoot-to-kill policies and fierce criticism of the Metropolitan Police. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 3 Jan. 2025

The North Node entering your 11th house pushes you toward new social circles and collaborative ventures, while Neptune’s entry into your 12th house invites spiritual growth and introspection. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin introspectus, past participle of introspicere to look inside, from intro- + specere to look — more at spy

First Known Use

circa 1677, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

introspection

noun

in·​tro·​spec·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈspek-shən 

: an examination of one's own thoughts or feelings

introspective

-ˈspek-tiv 

adjective

introspectively adverb

Medical Definition

introspection

noun

in·​tro·​spec·​tion -ˈspek-shən 

: an examination of one's own thoughts and feelings

introspectional

-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl 

adjective