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

“That’s probably reflective of a lot of trans people’s lives ... that their identity isn’t a big part of their day to day.”

From Los Angeles Times

The deeply partisan event was reflective of how Kirk's death has laid bare the extreme political divisions in America, with many on the right casting blame on the left for stoking political violence.

From BBC

It is a record reflective of Moyes' managerial struggles away to the biggest sides.

From BBC

Their luminescence highlights the crowd while also creating a more intimate, reflective atmosphere.

From Los Angeles Times

Along with quieter moments, like a reflective visit to his childhood home in Chicago, the camera also catches him repeatedly clashing with Kardashian over his behavior.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contemplative 
• deliberate 
• meditative 
• studious