introspect etymology

Etymology

The word "introspect" originates from the Latin words "intro," meaning "inward," and "specere," meaning "to look." It was first used in English in the 16th century to refer to the act of looking inward at one's own thoughts and feelings.

Meaning

Introspection is the process of examining one's own mental state, thoughts, feelings, and motives. It involves turning one's attention inward and observing the contents of one's own consciousness. Introspection can be used for self-reflection and understanding, as well as for psychological research and therapy.

Origin

The concept of introspection has been a topic of philosophical and psychological inquiry for centuries. Ancient philosophers such as Socrates and Plato emphasized the importance of self-knowledge and the value of turning inward for understanding. In the 19th century, introspection became a key method in psychology, particularly in the work of Wilhelm Wundt and the structuralists.

Examples of Usage

• "The therapist encouraged her patient to engage in introspection to better understand their motivations."
• "The scientist used introspection to explore the subjective experience of consciousness."
• "The philosopher reflected on the nature of introspection and its implications for understanding the self."

introspect relate terms

• introspection

  Etymology The word introspection is derived from two Latin roots Intro meaning w

• reflect

• Muse

  Etymology of Muse The word muse is derived from the Ancient Greek word μούσα

• mull

  Etymology Middle English mullen from Old English mullen Proto Germanic mullō Prot

• contemplate

  Etymology Origin Latin contemplari meaning to gaze at consider meditate upon Root

• meditate

  Etymology Latin meditāri to think over ponder consider Proto Indo European me

• speculate

  Speculate Etymology Latin speculari to observe to watch From specere to look

• ponder

  Etymology The word ponder originates from the Latin verb ponderare which means to w

• ignominious

  Etymology The word ignominious originates from Latin in meaning not or withou

• access

  Etymology Latin accessus from accedere to approach come into contact with Proto It

• figure

  Etymology The word figure comes from the Latin word figura which means shape for