mulling

¹

[ muhl-ing ]

noun

1. the act of reflecting or ruminating carefully on something (often followed by over ):

   After reading that book on simplifying life, I’ve been doing some heavy mulling and pondering.

adjective

1. reflecting or ruminating carefully on something:

   News hound, artist, analyst, or mulling philosopher—all will find this man’s story an unparalleled feast.

mulling

²

[ muhl-ing ]

noun

1. the act or process of heating wine, cider, ale, etc., sweetening it, and flavoring it with spices:

   Their gourmet spice blends carry the strong flavor needed for the mulling of wines, ciders, or juices.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mulling¹

First recorded in 1885–90; mull ¹( def ) + -ing ¹( def ) for the noun; mull ¹( def ) + -ing ²( def ) for the adjective

Origin of mulling²

mull ²( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

And while Mr. Raskin, 61, is mulling a challenge, he has not yet decided whether to pursue one, according to colleagues familiar with his thinking who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter.

From New York Times

Now, with a judge mulling whether to resentence them, the two brothers could have their first chance at being released.

From Los Angeles Times

Officials are reportedly also mulling using the National Guard and military aircraft to detain and ultimately deport people.

From BBC

Hezbollah, meanwhile, is said to be mulling a cease-fire proposal relayed by U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

Longtime observers of the conflict are mulling Ukraine’s options.

From Los Angeles Times