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pensive

adjective

/ˈpɛnsɪv/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of pensive

Deeply absorbed in thought, often with a sense of reflection, contemplation, or a slightly melancholic demeanor.
"The pensive expression on his face revealed that he was troubled by something."

Detailed meaning of pensive

When a person is described as pensive, it typically means they are engaged in introspection or deep consideration of a matter, their surroundings, or their own emotions. This adjective conveys a sense of seriousness and thoughtfulness, suggesting that the individual is in a state of introspective reflection, pondering various aspects of life or a specific issue. A pensive person may appear thoughtful and lost in their own musings, giving off an air of quiet contemplation as they navigate the complexities of their thoughts and emotions.

Example sentences containing pensive

1. He sat pensively, deep in thought as he pondered his next move.
2. She looked pensive as she gazed out the window, lost in her own thoughts.
3. He was pensive as he listened to the lecture, taking in the information.
4. She became pensive as she thought about the difficult decision she had to make.
5. She looked pensive as she read the letter, her emotions visible on her face.
6. He was pensive as he walked through the quiet streets, lost in his thoughts.

History and etymology of pensive

The adjective 'pensive' has its etymology in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'pensare,' which means 'to weigh' or 'to consider.' Over time, 'pensive' evolved to describe individuals who are deeply absorbed in thought, often with a sense of reflection, contemplation, or a slightly melancholic demeanor. The etymology of 'pensive' underscores the idea of mental weighing and consideration, highlighting the thoughtful and introspective nature of such contemplation. It conveys the sense of a person who is engaged in deep, introspective thinking, suggesting a thoughtful and sometimes reflective disposition.

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Further usage examples of pensive

1. The pensive young man spent a great deal of time contemplating his future.
2. She became pensive as she remembered the past, a distant look in her eyes.
3. He was pensive, as he considered the implications of the proposal.
4. She looked pensive as she listened to the music, the notes evoking memories.
5. He was pensive, as he thought about the future and the path he wanted to take.
6. She became pensive as she thought about the people who had helped her during her difficult times.
7. She gazed out the window with a pensive expression, lost in thought.
8. The pensive poet found inspiration in solitude, reflecting on life's mysteries.
9. His pensive mood lifted after a long walk in the woods, connecting with nature.
10. The pensive student pondered life's profound questions, seeking understanding.
11. The old man sat by the fire, his eyes pensive and wise, filled with memories.
12. The pensive artist sketched her emotions onto the canvas, expressing her inner turmoil.
13. A pensive atmosphere hung over the somber gathering, heavy with contemplation.
14. She often grew pensive when reminiscing about her youth, missing the past.
15. The pensive musician composed hauntingly beautiful melodies, evoking deep emotions.
16. His pensive nature made him a deep and introspective thinker, exploring the human psyche.
17. The pensive silence in the room was palpable, everyone lost in their thoughts.
18. A pensive smile crossed her face as she remembered happier times, nostalgia in her eyes.
19. The pensive character in the novel had a mysterious air, keeping readers intrigued.
20. The pensive traveler journaled about his adventures, capturing his inner journey.
21. The pensive aura of the library invited quiet contemplation, a sanctuary for thinkers.
22. Her pensive gaze turned towards the setting sun, the day's events replaying in her mind.
23. The pensive aura of the museum encouraged deep reflection, appreciating art's beauty.
24. He wore a pensive expression as he listened to the sad story, empathizing with the pain.
25. The pensive musician's songs resonated with heartfelt emotion, touching the soul.
26. A pensive moment of introspection can lead to personal growth, a path to self-discovery.