Definition

Feeling or showing deep, often sad or reflective thought.

Example

She sat by the window with a pensive look on her face, lost in her thoughts.

Conversation

You seem a bit pensive today. Is everything okay?

Yeah, just thinking about some things that happened last week.

I get that; sometimes it can be hard to shake those pensive thoughts.

Exactly, but talking about it helps a lot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pensive → It is derived from the Old French word 'pensif' (meaning thoughtful or reflective), which comes from the verb 'penser' (meaning to think). The word 'pensive' describes a state of deep or serious thought.

Memory Tip

Think of being in a state of deep thought or reflection, as 'pensif' relates to thinking, which helps you remember that 'pensive' means thoughtful.

Visually Confused Words