heart-searching

[hahrt-sur-ching]

noun

1. a thorough examination of one's feelings and motives; a self-examination of one's conscience.

heart-searching

noun

1. examination of one's feelings or conscience

Other Word Forms

• heart-searcher noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of heart-searching¹

First recorded in 1640–50; heart ( def. ) + searching ( def. )

Example Sentences

Dudley councillor Pete Lowe said welfare cuts announced on Tuesday were "the final straw" after months of heart-searching and tears.

From BBC

In the aftermath there will be much heart-searching and even recriminations that this massive stockpile of ammonium nitrate was left unattended in such a sensitive place as the docks.

From Washington Times

When Elizabeth, played with exquisite subtlety by Clare Foy, learns that her pledge was based on faulty advice served up by her lugubrious private secretary, Tommy Lascelles, she is full of consternation and hesitant heart-searching.

From New York Times

For the most part, the performers all make the best of these heart-searching songs.

From Washington Times

According to Alex Gregory, the British four conducted a heart-searching session after their semi-final defeat to try and turn the race verdict round.

From The Guardian

Related Words

• contemplation 
• meditation 
• reflection 
• scrutiny 
• self-examination 
• soul-searching