soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ How to pronounce soul-searching (audio)
: examination of one's conscience especially with regard to motives and values

Examples of soul-searching in a Sentence

after much soul-searching, they both realized that their marriage was essentially over
Recent Examples on the Web While there’s a lot of soul-searching to be done in October, finding ways to stay grounded and connected will be your biggest challenge, Scorpio. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 7 Oct. 2024 In Charismatic Istanbul, the Past Still Shapes the Present Beguilingly complex Istanbul has done a lot of soul-searching in recent years. Kurt Johnson, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Sep. 2024 The crux of the film followed Swift’s soul-searching as an artist with a sizable, influential platform and her decision — not supported by her PR team, family and managers — to engage in political discourse, including standing up for women’s and LGBTQ+ rights. Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 9 Sep. 2024 Those who have are often uninterested in those soul-searching questions that dominate headlines. Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 19 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for soul-searching 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'soul-searching.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of soul-searching was in 1924

Dictionary Entries Near soul-searching

Cite this Entry

“Soul-searching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soul-searching. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

soul-searching

noun
soul-search·​ing
ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ
: examination of one's conscience and especially one's reasons and values
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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