reflective

[ri-flek-tiv]

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

reflective

/ rɪˈflɛktɪv /

adjective

1. characterized by quiet thought or contemplation

2. capable of reflecting

   a reflective surface

3. produced by reflection

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of reflective¹

First recorded in 1620–30; reflect + -ive

Synonym Study

See pensive.

Example Sentences

His family and his longtime colleagues said the principles of understanding and peace he advocated were reflective of how he also conducted himself in his personal life.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“We would counter that, despite tight spreads that are reflective of both the quality of the index and general risk-on appetite, yields are still largely attractive,” he wrote.

Read more on Barron's

I know of no living document more reflective of a nation’s morality than its budget.

Read more on Salon

“There are some private sources for prices, but I don’t know that they’re really reflective of the consumption bundles that people actually consume,” Miran said.

Read more on Barron's

In the final episode, which was filmed before Sir David's 50th birthday this year, the pair get reflective about everything they have achieved, and what lies ahead for them.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• contemplative 
• deliberate 
• meditative 
• studious