thoughtful

adjective

thought·​ful ˈthȯt-fəl How to pronounce thoughtful (audio)
1
a
: absorbed in thought : meditative
b
: characterized by careful reasoned thinking
a thoughtful essay
2
a
: having thoughts : heedful
became thoughtful about religion
b
: given to or chosen or made with heedful anticipation of the needs and wants of others
a kind and thoughtful friend
thoughtfully adverb
thoughtfulness noun

Examples of thoughtful in a Sentence

She looked at me with a thoughtful expression. He looked thoughtful for a moment. Her husband is always thoughtful. That's very thoughtful of you.
Recent Examples on the Web
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The track’s celestial production has the same thoughtful quality that defines the entire Above & Beyond oeuvre, and is also infused with the soaring trance elements that are the trio’s signature. Katie Bain, Billboard, 22 Nov. 2024 Perfect pairings: As an Eau de Toilette, Cherry Blossom benefits significantly from thoughtful layering to enhance its delicate nature and extend its presence throughout the day. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 22 Nov. 2024 Photo: Lauren Trujillo The thoughtful fashion didn’t end at the red carpet, either. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2024 What's especially exciting about this model is all the thoughtful features included for maximum comfort. New Atlas, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for thoughtful 

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of thoughtful was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near thoughtful

Cite this Entry

“Thoughtful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thoughtful. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

thoughtful

adjective
thought·​ful ˈthȯt-fəl How to pronounce thoughtful (audio)
1
a
: lost in thought
b
: marked by careful thinking
a thoughtful essay
2
: considerate of the needs of others
a kind and thoughtful friend
thoughtfully adverb
thoughtfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on thoughtful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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