Synonyms

thought-provoking

American

[thawt-pruh-voh-king] / ˈθɔt prəˌvoʊ kɪŋ /

adjective

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

Etymology

Origin of thought-provoking

First recorded in 1790–1800

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.

"Coinbase remains committed to authentic, thought-provoking communication and to operating responsibly within the UK's regulatory framework," it said.

From BBC • Jan. 29, 2026

Emma Barnett and John Simpson bring their pick of the most thought-provoking deep reads and analysis, every Saturday.

From BBC • Jan. 12, 2026

In our bizarro world, the “Zootopia” franchise serves as a vehicle for thought-provoking subjects disseminated by way of colorful anthropomorphic animals.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 25, 2025

A weekly look at our most colorful, thought-provoking and original feature stories on the business of life.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 15, 2025

You’ve used your irreverent, hectoring funny and thought-provoking voice to create a space for real conversations about an important subject.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023