thought-provoking

[thawt-pruh-voh-king]

adjective

1. causing one to ponder or reflect, as by raising questions or issues, introducing new ideas, etc..

   The theater company has gained a reputation for high-quality performances that are both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Other Word Forms

• thought-provokingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of thought-provoking¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

But I was also told something else that was thought-provoking by a Silicon Valley figure - that it doesn't matter whether there really is a bubble or if it bursts.

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All that thought-provoking conversation and the culinary brilliance of Chef Philippe, not to mention the long walk to the Piazza Hotel and the bumpy ride back, had eaten up a substantial portion of the day.

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This is an edition of the WSJ Weekend Reads newsletter, a weekly look at our most colorful, thought-provoking and original feature stories on the business of life.

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It was a thought-provoking hour, offering new contextual insight into period music and art that we think we know.

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Put simply, it feels like a classic “Alien” movie for the right reasons while lacking the thought-provoking and soulful weight of the best of them.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• absorbing 
• captivating 
• exciting 
• fascinating 
• gripping 
• inspirational 
• interesting 
• intriguing www.thesaurus.com
• provocative 
• riveting