Search Dictionary
Definition of pensive

pensive

/ˈpɛn.sɪv/
pen · sive
Adverb:pensively
JUMP TO:

pensive Lexical Profile

pensive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Engaged in, involving, or reflecting deep or serious thought, often tinged with quiet sadness or wistfulness.

Example

"She sat by the window in a pensive mood, watching the autumn leaves drift to the ground."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pensive
Antonyms
View all antonyms for pensive

Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike 'thoughtful', which is emotionally neutral or implies kindness toward others, 'pensive' specifically carries an undertone of wistfulness, seriousness, or quiet melancholy.

• Rhymes for pensive

• Nearby Words

pensionable
pensioner
pensionless
pensive
pensively
pensiveness
penstemon

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'pensif', from 'penser' ('to think'), which ultimately derives from the Latin 'pensare' ('to weigh carefully or ponder').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pensive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pensive
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.