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Synonyms

reflective

American  
[ri-flek-tiv] / rɪˈflɛk tɪv /

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 British  
/ rɪˈflɛktɪv /

adjective

  1. characterized by quiet thought or contemplation

  2. capable of reflecting

    a reflective surface

  3. produced by reflection

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Related Words

See pensive.

Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of reflective

First recorded in 1620–30; reflect + -ive

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He points to Ari Aster’s small-town social satire “Eddington” as a film that is reflective of its moment without being didactic.

From Los Angeles Times

The reflective spokes of a bicycle wheel glint in the headlights.

From Literature

Though Flea exudes a childlike excitement in pretty much everything he does, with “Honora,” there’s also a reflective maturity that’s relatable, especially for longtime fans who’ve grown up with him and his music.

From Los Angeles Times

"British racing is at its best when it is open, welcoming and reflective of the society around us."

From BBC

He has become “more reflective about the stupidity of some of the idol factories I used to create in my head around work projects.”

From The Wall Street Journal