reflection
rih-FLEHK-shuhn
Reflection (noun) means an image or copy of something formed by light bouncing off a surface. Example: “The still pond gave a perfect reflection of the mountains.”
noun
1
An image or copy of something formed by light bouncing off a surface.
"The still pond gave a perfect reflection of the mountains."
"She caught her reflection in the shop window."
"The moon's reflection shimmered on the water."
2
Careful thought or consideration.
"On reflection, I think we should have asked for more help."
"The retreat offers a quiet place for reflection and rest."
"After some reflection, he decided to change careers."
3
Something that reveals or is evidence of a quality, trend, or condition.
"Her excellent exam results are a reflection of months of hard work."
"The tidy classroom is a fine reflection of the teacher's care."
"The low turnout is a reflection of voter apathy."
How to use reflection
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA mirrored image, deep thought, or a sign that reveals something about a situation.
Common pairings
reflection in the mirror
on reflection
a reflection of society
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Word forms
- Plural
- reflections
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The still pond gave a perfect _____ of the mountains.
Etymology
From Late Latin reflexio, from reflectere ("to bend back"). Spelling later influenced by "reflect."
Synonyms
View more →
image
mirror image
contemplation
meditation
musing
consideration
observation
expression
manifestation
rumination
reflexion
reflectivity
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for reflection
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for reflection →
Frequently asked questions
What does “reflection” mean?
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.
How do you pronounce “reflection”?
“Reflection” is pronounced rih-FLEHK-shuhn (/ɹɪˈflɛkʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “reflection” in a sentence?
Here is “reflection” used in a sentence: “She caught her reflection in the shop window.”
What part of speech is “reflection”?
“Reflection” is a noun.
Where does the word “reflection” come from?
The word “reflection” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin reflexio, from reflectere ("to bend back"). Spelling later influenced by "reflect.".
Is “reflection” a common word?
“Reflection” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “reflection” have?
“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.
What is the difference between reflection and refraction?
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.
What is the difference between reflection and contemplation?
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.
What preposition goes with reflection?
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.
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