pensive
/ˈpɛnsɪv/adjective
Quietly lost in serious or deep thought.
Example sentence
- “He sat in a pensive mood, staring out at the rain.”
From French penser, to think. It suggests a tinge of quiet sadness, not just concentration.
Featured as word of the day on July 6, 2026.
Related words
pepperA sharp-tasting spice made from the dried, fermented, unripe berries of the pepper plant.pensionRegular payments made to someone after they retire from work or military service.perceiveTo notice or understand something using your senses or your mind.pennyA British coin, or unit of money, equal to one hundredth of a pound sterling.perceptiveQuick to notice and understand things that others might miss.peninsulaA stretch of land that extends out from the mainland and is surrounded by water on most sides.