introspect

American  

[in-truh-spekt] / ˌɪn trəˈspɛkt /

verb (used without object)

1. to practice introspection; consider one's own internal state or feelings.

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verb (used with object)

1. to look into or examine (one's own mind, feelings, etc.).

introspect British  

/ ˌɪntrəˈspɛkt /

verb

1. (intr) to examine and analyse one's own thoughts and feelings

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Other Word Forms

• introspectable adjective
• introspectible adjective
• introspection noun
• introspective adjective
• introspector noun

Etymology

Origin of introspect

First recorded in 1675–85; back formation from introspection

Example Sentences

Not to go all Charlie Brown here – and yes, a Peanuts-themed fireplace exists on the Interwebs – but might we introspect about these commercialist and consumerist bells and whistles leading us astray?

From Salon • Dec. 18, 2025

And rather than undiscerningly scouring ChatGPT tics from our prose, we can use them as cues to introspect.

From Slate • Aug. 20, 2025

With so many acquittals, former Supreme Court judge Madan Lokur said, the prosecution and police "should sit down to introspect what they have achieved in five years".

From BBC • Feb. 27, 2025

It also offers me a place to step back and introspect, minus the pressure of having answers.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 25, 2024

A little halt for introspect, A little moment to reflect On life's discrepancy— Our puny stint so poorly done, The larger duties scarce begun— And so may conscience culpable Suggest a remedy.

From Poems Vol. IV by Howard, Hattie