reflective

American  

[ri-flek-tiv] / rɪˈflɛk tɪv /

adjective

1. that reflects; reflecting.

2. of or relating to reflection.

3. cast by reflection.

4. given to, marked by, or concerned with meditation or deliberation.

   a reflective person.

   Synonyms:

   thoughtful, contemplative

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reflective British  

/ rɪˈflɛktɪv /

adjective

1. characterized by quiet thought or contemplation

2. capable of reflecting

   a reflective surface

3. produced by reflection

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Related Words

See pensive.

Other Word Forms

• antireflective adjective
• antireflectively adverb
• antireflectiveness noun
• nonreflective adjective
• nonreflectively adverb
• nonreflectiveness noun
• overreflective adjective
• overreflectively adverb
• overreflectiveness noun
• reflectively adverb
• reflectiveness noun
• reflectivity noun
• self-reflective adjective

Etymology

Origin of reflective

First recorded in 1620–30; reflect + -ive

Example Sentences

“If it has a specific shade to it or a certain shine, or if it’s a little blue or too reflective, that’s going to give me pause,” said Ferretti, referring to a Birkin.

From The Wall Street Journal

The French leader wore a striking pair of blue reflective aviator sunglasses indoors while addressing world leaders at the World Economic Forum.

From BBC

The brittle, acoustically reflective shell combines with its curved, hollow shape to act as a Helmholtz resonator, rendering ambient background noise into the sound of the surf.

From The Wall Street Journal

In their place is a more reflective, though no less engaged tone as these characters, and others, seek financial and emotional stability.

From Los Angeles Times

A press release pointed to "radar interference" due to "the movement of massive turbine blades and the highly reflective towers."

From Barron's

Related Words

• contemplative
• deliberate
• meditative
• studious