heart-searching
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of heart-searching
First recorded in 1640–50; heart ( def. ) + searching ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
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 • Aug. 5, 2020
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 • Nov. 23, 2016
They are gods to whom doubtful philosophers can pray, with all a philosopher's due caution, as to so many radiant and heart-searching hypotheses.
From Five Stages of Greek Religion by Murray, Gilbert
With all the fault of his printed sermons, the conclusions of some of them are, to my mind, the most stirring and heart-searching addresses to souls that are to be found in the English language.
From A Sketch of the Life and Labors of George Whitefield by Ryle, John Charles
There is nothing so heart-searching as this faith, “Believe that ye have received.”
From The Ministry of Intercession A Plea for More Prayer by Murray, Andrew
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
