Reflection
/rɪˈflɛkʃən/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe bouncing back of light, heat, sound, or other energy from a surface.
/rɪˈflɛkʃən/
The throwing back of light, heat, or sound from a surface.
The reflection of the sun on the windows made it difficult to see.
💡 Simply: Imagine a mirror: when you look at it, your face shows up. That's reflection - when something like light or sound hits a surface and bounces back.
👶 For kids: When something bounces back from a surface like a mirror or water.
More Examples
The mirror provided a clear reflection of her face.
The artist was skilled at depicting reflections in their paintings.
How It's Used
"The reflection of light on the water created a shimmering effect."
"The artist captured the subtle reflections in the polished metal sculpture."
An image, likeness, or representation of something; a consequence or effect.
/rɪˈflɛkʃən/
A likeness; an image.
The artwork was a beautiful reflection of the artist's inner world.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, things are a 'reflection' of something else, like if your grades are good, it's a 'reflection' of how hard you studied, like looking at a mirror image.
👶 For kids: A copy or picture of something, or a sign of something else.
More Examples
His nervous laughter was a reflection of his anxiety.
The building's design was a reflection of its purpose.
How It's Used
"Her success was a reflection of her hard work and dedication."
"His behavior was a reflection of his upbringing."
Serious thought or consideration about something; contemplation.
/rɪˈflɛkʃən/
Serious thought or consideration.
She spent the afternoon in quiet reflection.
💡 Simply: When you 'reflect', it's like thinking deeply about something. Like, you ponder on your day to see what you did well and what you can do better, kind of like a review.
👶 For kids: Thinking really hard about something.
More Examples
The essay required careful reflection on the author's ideas.
Reflection on past mistakes can prevent them from happening again.
How It's Used
"After much reflection, she decided to change her career path."
"Daily reflection helps in self-awareness."
Synonyms
Echo
Rebound
Image
Manifestation
Portrayal
Contemplation
Deliberation
Meditation
Idioms & expressions
in reflection
After careful consideration; upon thinking things over.
"In reflection, he realized he had been too hasty in his decision."
From Middle English refleccioun, from Old French reflexion, from Latin reflectio ('a bending back, a turning back'), from reflectere ('to bend back').
The word 'reflection' has been used in English since the 14th century, originally with the physical sense of something being bent back or thrown back.
Memory tip
Think of a mirror reflecting your image.