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
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.
That Harris could actually lose to Trump should cause some serious soul-searching for Democrats. Letters To The Editor, Orlando Sentinel, 21 Dec. 2024 Not every electoral loss must be followed by a period of soul-searching or rebuilding. Todd Eberly, Baltimore Sun, 21 Dec. 2024 Democrats have engaged in soul-searching and finger-pointing within the party as members look to apportion blame for the defeat. Ivana Saric, Axios, 12 Dec. 2024 While the postmortem and soul-searching are necessary, the tone and tenor of the blame game have begun to morph into something more insidious. Anthony D. Romero, Twin Cities, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for soul-searching 

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 31 Dec. 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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