reflected; reflecting; reflects
1
: to prevent passage of and cause to change direction
a mirror reflects light
2
: to give back or exhibit as an image, likeness, or outline : mirror
the clouds were reflected in the water
3
: to bring or cast as a result
his attitude reflects little credit on his judgment
4
: to make manifest or apparent : show
the painting reflects his artistic vision
the pulse reflects the condition of the heart
6
: to bend or fold back
7
archaic
: to turn into or away from a course : deflect
1
: to throw back light or sound
2
a
: to think quietly and calmly
b
: to express a thought or opinion resulting from reflection
3
a
: to tend to bring reproach or discredit
an investigation that reflects on all the members of the department
b
: to bring about a specified appearance or characterization
an act which reflects well on her
c
: to have a bearing or influence
Examples of reflect in a Sentence
The old church is reflected in the glass exterior of the skyscraper.
Her book clearly reflects her beliefs.
Where you learned a language is reflected in your accent.
Recent Examples on the Web
There are concerns among some GOP lawmakers that another leadership crisis would not only endanger their chances of retaining control of the House, but also reflect poorly on Trump’s reelection campaign.
—
USA TODAY, 12 Apr. 2024
These scenes and supporting characters reflect so much of our modern-day political discourse, which is populated by people who come for the necks of their own allies for not entirely subscribing to the most extreme, most perfect form of their ideology.
—Richard Newby, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Apr. 2024
Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors.
—TIME, 12 Apr. 2024
News coverage reflected a growing — though hardly universal — sentiment that this trial could be payback for the criminal acquittal.
—David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 12 Apr. 2024
Cardell’s remarks reflect concerns around how the biggest US tech companies have acquired stakes in many of the most promising AI startups, deals that involve both funding and strategic access to infrastructure.
—Tiffany Tsoi, Fortune Europe, 12 Apr. 2024
The trio of chronographs showcases new dial colors—Horizon Blue, Obsidian, and Dune—that reflect the atmospheres of day and night.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 11 Apr. 2024
Charles also reflected on the importance of serving others.
—USA TODAY, 31 Mar. 2024
Steve Martin is reflecting on his difficult relationship with his dad.
—Esme Mazzeo, Peoplemag, 31 Mar. 2024
USA TODAY, 12 Apr. 2024
These scenes and supporting characters reflect so much of our modern-day political discourse, which is populated by people who come for the necks of their own allies for not entirely subscribing to the most extreme, most perfect form of their ideology.
—Richard Newby, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Apr. 2024
Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors.
—TIME, 12 Apr. 2024
News coverage reflected a growing — though hardly universal — sentiment that this trial could be payback for the criminal acquittal.
—David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 12 Apr. 2024
Cardell’s remarks reflect concerns around how the biggest US tech companies have acquired stakes in many of the most promising AI startups, deals that involve both funding and strategic access to infrastructure.
—Tiffany Tsoi, Fortune Europe, 12 Apr. 2024
The trio of chronographs showcases new dial colors—Horizon Blue, Obsidian, and Dune—that reflect the atmospheres of day and night.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 11 Apr. 2024
Charles also reflected on the importance of serving others.
—USA TODAY, 31 Mar. 2024
Steve Martin is reflecting on his difficult relationship with his dad.
—Esme Mazzeo, Peoplemag, 31 Mar. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'reflect.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near reflect
Cite this Entry
“Reflect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reflect. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
reflect
verb
re·flect
ri-ˈflekt 
1
: to bend or throw back waves of light, sound, or heat
a polished surface reflects light
2
: to give back an image or likeness of as if by a mirror
3
: to bring as a result
4
: to cast disapproval or blame
our bad conduct reflects upon our training
5
: to think seriously and carefully : meditate
Medical Definition
reflect
transitive verb
re·flect
ri-ˈflekt
1
: to bend or fold back : impart a backward curve, bend, or fold to
2
: to push or lay aside (as tissue or an organ) during surgery in order to gain access to the part to be operated on
the pleura were reflected and later closed over the stump
: to throw back light or sound : return rays, beams, or waves
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