Definition

1. Noun:
   • The return of light, sound, or other waves from a surface: The phenomenon where a wave bounces back after hitting a barrier.
   • An image produced by or as if by a mirror: A counterpart or likeness that is seen in a reflective surface.
   • Serious thought or consideration: The act of thinking deeply, carefully, or quietly about something.
   • Something that shows, expresses, or is a sign of something else: A manifestation, result, or consequence that reveals the nature of a condition.
   • A remark or observation expressing an idea or opinion based on such thought: A comment that is the product of careful consideration.

Examples of Usage

• As the return of waves:
  • The reflection of the mountains in the lake was perfect.
  • The room was bright due to the reflection of sunlight off the white walls.
• As a mirror image:
  • She stared at her reflection in the shop window.
  • The still water provided a clear reflection of the trees.
• As serious thought:
  • After much reflection, I decided to accept the job offer.
  • The book encourages quiet reflection on one's life.
• As a manifestation or sign:
  • His poor performance was a reflection of his lack of preparation.
  • The success of the project is a reflection of the team's hard work.
• As a considered remark:
  • The article is full of interesting reflections on modern society.
  • "We are what we repeatedly do," is a famous reflection on character.

Advanced Usage

• "On reflection": Used to introduce a thought that has been reconsidered.
  • On reflection, I think your initial idea was the best one.
• "A moment of reflection": A short period for serious thought.
  • A moment of reflection before answering difficult questions is wise.
• "Cast a reflection on": To cause people to have a particular (often negative) opinion about someone or something.
  • The scandal cast a bad reflection on the entire organization.

Variants and Related Words

• Reflect (verb): To throw back (light, heat, sound); to think deeply; to show or represent.
  • The glass building reflects the sky.
  • I need time to reflect on what happened.
• Reflective (adjective): Characterized by deep thought; capable of reflecting light or images.
  • She was in a reflective mood.
  • Reflective surfaces are used for safety on roads.
• Reflector (noun): An object or surface that reflects light, sound, or other waves.
  • Bicycles have reflectors to make them visible at night.

Synonyms

• Image, likeness (for mirror image).
• Consideration, contemplation, meditation, thought (for serious thinking).
• Indication, manifestation, expression (for a sign or result).
• Observation, comment, remark (for a considered statement).

Related Phrases

• Soul-searching: Deep and careful thought about your own feelings and motives (a type of intense reflection).
• Food for thought: Something that warrants serious consideration or reflection.
• Introspection: The examination of one's own thoughts and feelings (a form of self-reflection).

Noun

1. the ability to reflect beams or rays
2. a remark expressing careful consideration
3. (mathematics) a transformation in which the direction of one axis is reversed
4. the image of something as reflected by a mirror (or other reflective material)
   • he studied his reflection in the mirror
5. a likeness in which left and right are reversed
6. expression without words
   • tears are an expression of grief
   • the pulse is a reflection of the heart's condition
7. the phenomenon of a propagating wave (light or sound) being thrown back from a surface
8. a calm, lengthy, intent consideration