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

“I just accepted failing, so my thought process on failing changed,” Betts said in an introspective press conference on the eve of the playoffs.

From Los Angeles Times

His last two records, the subdued and introspective Subtract and Autumn Variations, were commercial misfires, selling less than half a million copies each.

From BBC

We’d maybe been a little introspective on “God Only Knows,” maybe “In My Room,” and “The Warmth of the Sun.”

From Los Angeles Times

Despite his status as a global action star, Hemsworth is very introspective and seems to be deeply driven in finding constant meaning and purpose to his life.

From BBC

His score, much like the original, is an amusement park ride full of sudden drops, humor and family-friendly terror, with a few moments of cathartic, introspective relief.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• reflective 
• thoughtful