introspective

[in-truh-spek-tiv]

adjective

1. characterized by introspection, the act or process of looking into oneself.

Other Word Forms

• introspectively adverb
• introspectiveness noun
• nonintrospective adjective
• nonintrospectively adverb
• nonintrospectiveness noun
• unintrospective adjective
• unintrospectively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of introspective¹

First recorded in 1800–10; from Latin intrōspect(us), past participle of intrōspicere “to look within” + -ive ( def. ); introspection ( def. )

Example Sentences

For as tender and quietly introspective as Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” eventually becomes, the Norwegian writer-director’s latest film opens in a frenzy.

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There are evolving displays of solo and group dances, some madly driven, others intently introspective.

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Beyond that, Hopkins prefers to avoid “an introspective analysis.”

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He is an introspective person, she says, and is willing to challenge his own ideas, including the ones he put forth when creating the company.

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In a risky career move, Springsteen turns introspective, digesting the short stories of Flannery O’Connor and Howard Zinn’s “People’s History of the United States.”

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Related Words

• reflective 
• thoughtful