thoughtful
Americanadjective
-
showing consideration for others; considerate.
- Synonyms:
- solicitous, attentive
-
characterized by or manifesting careful thought.
a thoughtful essay.
-
occupied with or given to thought; contemplative; meditative; reflective.
in a thoughtful mood.
-
careful, heedful, or mindful.
to be thoughtful of one's safety.
adjective
-
considerate in the treatment of other people
-
showing careful thought
-
pensive; reflective
Related Words
Thoughtful, considerate mean taking thought for the comfort and the good of others. Thoughtful implies providing little attentions, offering services, or in some way looking out for the comfort or welfare of others: It was thoughtful of you to send the flowers. Considerate implies sparing others annoyance or discomfort, and being careful not to hurt their feelings: not considerate of his family.
Other Word Forms
- overthoughtful adjective
- overthoughtfully adverb
- thoughtfully adverb
- thoughtfulness noun
- unthoughtful adjective
- unthoughtfully adverb
Etymology
Origin of thoughtful
First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English; thought 1 + -ful
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Shayla Amamiya is one of several Black content creators with Tourette’s who have made thoughtful videos explaining what it means to have this disability.
From Salon
But while her bubbly persona may at first make her seem simply freewheeling and free-spirited, she’s also savvy and thoughtful.
From Los Angeles Times
Entering Vinyl Room feels like you’re stepping into a secret speakeasy for music lovers, one with iconic music memorabilia, a thoughtful food menu and premium sound quality.
From Los Angeles Times
“This home is a rare example of Swiss architectural mastery, built with exceptional quality, thoughtful details, and a focus on longevity,” Young adds.
From MarketWatch
“Yes,” said Handsome, deeply moved, not just by his striking image in the mirror, but by the thoughtful gesture of Duane’s gift.
From Literature
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
