reflective

[ri-flek-tiv]

adjective

1. that reflects; reflecting.

2. of or relating to reflection.

3. cast by reflection.

4. given to, marked by, or concerned with meditation or deliberation.

   a reflective person.

   Synonyms: thoughtful, contemplative

reflective

/ rɪˈflɛktɪv /

adjective

1. characterized by quiet thought or contemplation

2. capable of reflecting

   a reflective surface

3. produced by reflection

Other Word Forms

• reflectively adverb
• reflectiveness noun
• reflectivity noun
• antireflective adjective
• antireflectively adverb
• antireflectiveness noun
• nonreflective adjective
• nonreflectively adverb
• nonreflectiveness noun
• overreflective adjective
• overreflectively adverb
• overreflectiveness noun
• self-reflective adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of reflective¹

First recorded in 1620–30; reflect + -ive

Synonym Study

See pensive.

Example Sentences

Sunrise and sunset are so important to me because they are such reflective times.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As a younger man, Munger could be cranky and acerbic; now, he was warm and reflective.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The fact that seasonal job postings have held steady from last year is reflective of the labour market's paralysis, she said.

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As the priest then began the offertory portion of the liturgy, which often is accompanied by quiet music, the organist played a reflective piece very slowly.

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"It's reflective of a lot of the games on this tour," Australia coach Joe Schmidt told reporters.

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Related Words

• contemplative 
• deliberate 
• meditative 
• studious