reflection

The word “reflection” means an image or copy of something formed by light bouncing off a surface. In plain terms, a mirrored image, deep thought, or a sign that reveals something about a situation.

“Reflection” is pronounced rih-FLEHK-shuhn (/ɹɪˈflɛkʃən/ in IPA).

Here is “reflection” used in a sentence: “She caught her reflection in the shop window.”

“Reflection” is a noun.

The word “reflection” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin reflexio, from reflectere ("to bend back"). Spelling later influenced by "reflect.".

“Reflection” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Reflection” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an image or copy of something formed by light bouncing off a surface.

Reflection is when light bounces off a surface to form an image, as in a mirror. Refraction is when light bends as it passes from one material into another, such as from air into water.

Both involve careful thought. Reflection often means looking back on experiences or ideas to gain understanding, while contemplation suggests deep, sustained, sometimes meditative thinking about a subject.

In the thinking sense, reflection is usually followed by on or upon, as in reflection on the past. In the light sense, we speak of a reflection in a mirror or in water.