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

Derived 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.

The ways the siblings cope with their versions of reality are quite different, quite haunting and quite thought-provoking.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

This season, she adds, "feels almost unrecognisable" compared with the "relatable or thought-provoking teenage experiences" seen in Euphoria's earlier episodes.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

Then in the spirit of springtime renewal, thought-provoking plays like “John Proctor Is the Villain” and “Fences” will leave audiences in contemplation before festive summer item “Boop! The Musical” swoops in to lift spirits.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

"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

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.

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood

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