re·flect
(rĭ-flĕkt́)
[Middle English reflecten, from Old French reflecter, from Latin reflectere, to bend back, re-, re-, + flectere, to bend.]
verb: -flect·ed, -flect·ing, -flects.
transitive verb
- To throw or bend back (light, for example) from a surface. See synonyms at echo
- To give back or show an image of (an object); mirror.
- To make apparent; express or manifest: Her work reflects intelligence.
- To bring as a consequence: The victory reflects credit on the coach.
- Archaic To bend back.
intransitive verb
- To be bent or thrown back: Her voice reflected off the canyon walls.
- To give something back, as light or sound: a shiny surface that reflects well.
- To give evidence of the characteristics or qualities of someone or something: That student's performance reflects well on the whole school.
- To bring blame or discredit: Hasty preparation of the report will reflect on you.
- To think seriously. See synonyms at think
- To express carefully considered thoughts: In the essay, he reflects on his career.
