contemplate

[ kon-tuhm-pleyt, -tem- ]

verb (used with object)

, con·tem·plat·ed, con·tem·plat·ing.

1. to look at or view with continued attention; observe or study thoughtfully:

   to contemplate the stars.

   Synonyms: survey, regard, behold

2. to consider thoroughly; think fully or deeply about:

   to contemplate a difficult problem.

   Synonyms: ponder, study

3. to have as a purpose; intend:

   The District Attorney's office does not contemplate any charges.

   Synonyms: plan, design

4. to have in view as a future event:

   to contemplate buying a new car.

verb (used without object)

, con·tem·plat·ed, con·tem·plat·ing.

1. to think studiously; consider deliberately; meditate.

contemplate

/ -təm-; ˈkɒntɛmˌpleɪt /

verb

1. to think about intently and at length; consider calmly
2. intr to think intently and at length, esp for spiritual reasons; meditate
3. to look at thoughtfully; observe pensively
4. to have in mind as a possibility

   to contemplate changing jobs

Derived Forms

• ˈcontemˌplator, noun

Other Words From

• con·tem·pla·tor noun
• pre·con·tem·plate verb precontemplated precontemplating
• re·con·tem·plate verb recontemplated recontemplating
• un·con·tem·plat·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of contemplate¹

First recorded in 1585–95; from Latin contemplātus, past participle of contemplāre, contemplārī “to survey, observe,” equivalent to con- “with, together” + templ(um) “space marked off for augural observation” + -ātus past participle suffix; con-, temple ¹, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of contemplate¹

C16: from Latin contemplāre, from templum temple ¹

Related Words

• aim
• consider
• envisage
• foresee
• intend
• mean
• mull over
• ponder
• propose
• think of
• weigh