thoughtfulness

[thawt-fuhl-nis]

noun

1. the characteristic or habit of anticipating and being attentive to the needs and interests of others.

   I was touched by the thoughtfulness of the busy waitress, who rushed to open the heavy door for me when I left.

2. the quality of showing careful, thorough reflection.

   The thoughtfulness of your interview questions really helped all the participants get to know the candidate.

3. a contemplative or meditative state or quality; pensiveness.

   He stood looking down at them in gloomy thoughtfulness.

4. the quality of being careful, heedful, or mindful (usually followed by of).

   Solving problems requires not just knowledge of advanced technology, but thoughtfulness of context and application.

Other Word Forms

• overthoughtfulness noun
• unthoughtfulness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of thoughtfulness¹

thoughtful ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

Matt Wilson at the ASA says the issue highlighted brands' responsibilities and "the thoughtfulness they need to take".

From BBC

That’s what a good ice cube tray is, in the end: a tiny engine of thoughtfulness.

From Salon

“I just think it really captures her whimsy, her thoughtfulness, her creativity and the joy,” Carlip adds, about the house and book alike.

From Los Angeles Times

DecantPlanet threw in three free vials and a signed, handwritten note on the receipt, a touch that further convinces me of the thoughtfulness of scent lovers.

From Los Angeles Times

I think there’s nothing off limits, because it’s really about execution and thoughtfulness.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• kindness