introspective

adjective

in·​tro·​spec·​tive ˌin-trə-ˈspek-tiv 

: characterized by examination of one's own thoughts and feelings : thoughtfully reflective : employing, marked by, or tending to introspection

As a student, he was very quiet and introspective.

… encouraging a balance between the fast, upbeat songs and a band's more introspective side.

—David T. Lindsay

There's an interesting literature that suggests that when people are sad, they tend to pay attention to themselves. They become withdrawn and introspective and very aware of their body and their mind and not very aware of the external world.

—Peter Salovey

introspectively adverb

This whole episode set me thinking introspectively, and led me gradually but imperatively to self-analysis—not of powers, but of motives.

—Bram Stoker

introspectiveness noun

Introversion is too often considered a sign of weakness when it should instead be an indication of strength, and associated with thoughtfulness, introspectiveness and independence.

—Jasmine Tatah

Examples of introspective in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Looking back at stories from his family and patients, as well as the evolution of end-of-life care, this moving book a thought-provoking and introspective look at our mortality. —Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 30 Dec. 2024

The announcement hints at a deeper, more introspective side of TREASURE, a bold move for a group that has built its brand on explosive performances and anthemic hooks but is also known for being highly involved in its songwriting and production. —Jeff Benjamin, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024

The pair offers something that manages to be both playful and introspective at the same time, a delicate balance of two sensations so commonplace with Christmastime. —Stephanie Kaloi and James Mercadante, EW.com, 21 Dec. 2024

Beyond direct interpolations, the track’s introspective yet celebratory tone continues to influence music across genres, solidifying its place as a timeless masterpiece. —Walaa Elsiddig, Billboard, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above