soul-searching

noun

soul-search·​ing ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ How to pronounce soul-searching (audio)
: examination of one's conscience especially with regard to motives and values

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The challenges have spurred soul-searching within the industry. Liang Lei, CNBC, 26 Feb. 2025 Claudine Jasper, the matriarch of Purpose, the latest work of irreverence and soul-searching by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. Soraya Nadia McDonald, Vulture, 25 Feb. 2025 The Jayhawks will now try to regroup in all aspects heading into Saturday’s 3 p.m. home game versus Oklahoma State. KU obviously will discuss a game plan in depth, but as far as soul-searching team meetings regarding the mental aspect of the game? Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 20 Feb. 2025 The Bostock ruling arrived against a backdrop of anguished soul-searching on the right. Mattathias Schwartz, New York Times, 15 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for soul-searching

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of soul-searching was in 1924

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Soul-searching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soul-searching. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

soul-searching

noun
soul-search·​ing
ˈsōl-ˌsər-chiŋ
: examination of one's conscience and especially one's reasons and values
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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