soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ 

: examination of one's conscience especially with regard to motives and values

Synonyms of soul-searching

• introspection
• self-examination
• self-reflection
• self-searching
• self-questioning
• self-scrutiny
• contemplation

Examples of soul-searching in a Sentence

after much soul-searching, they both realized that their marriage was essentially over

Recent Examples on the Web

Crowley won the primary by a half percentage point — roughly 3,800 votes — illustrating Democrats’ soul-searching in the Upper Midwestern swing state. — ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026

The tragedy has prompted soul-searching in the world of TV news helicopter pilots and focused attention on safety issues. — Los Angeles Times, 19 Sep. 2026

He was found dead at his home in August, prompting soul-searching in British media over whether the coverage of the Arday allegations was proportionate. — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 9 Sep. 2026

The backlash — the reckoning, as some called it — led to a wave of corporate soul-searching that led to the demise of Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben, and a public declaration that Black lives mattered. — Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 6 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for soul-searching

• researching
• lurching
• perching
• searching

Kids Definition

soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing

ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ

: examination of one's conscience and especially one's reasons and values