unreflectively
|un-re-flec-tive-ly|
/ˌʌn.rɪˈflɛk.tɪv.li/
(unreflective)
without careful thought
Etymology
'unreflectively' is formed in modern English by adding the adverbial suffix '-ly' to 'unreflective', which itself is 'un-' + 'reflective'. 'reflective' ultimately comes from Latin 'reflectere' meaning 'to bend back.'
'reflectere' (Latin) > past participle stem 'reflect-' > Late Latin/Old French forms influenced Middle English 'reflect(ive)' > English 'reflective' > prefixed by 'un-' to form 'unreflective' and then suffixed with '-ly' to create 'unreflectively'.
Originally from Latin the root referred to physical 'bending back' ('to bend back'), then figuratively came to mean 'to turn the mind back on (something)' — i.e., 'to think about' — and the negative 'un-' produced the sense 'not thinking or considering', which is retained in 'unreflectively'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or quality of being unreflective; lack of reflection or careful thought (noun form of 'unreflective').
The unreflectiveness of the decision surprised many of the committee members.
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Adjective 1
(Transformation of the base form) Lacking reflection or careful thought; not thoughtful or contemplative.
Her unreflective remarks offended several people.
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Adverb 1
in a way that shows a lack of careful thought or consideration; without reflecting or thinking things through.
He answered unreflectively, without considering the consequences.
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Last updated: 2025/09/24 23:54