contemplation

[ kon-tuhm-pley-shuhn, -tem- ]

noun

1. the act of contemplating; thoughtful observation.
2. full or deep consideration; reflection:

   religious contemplation.

3. purpose or intention.
4. prospect or expectation.

contemplation

/ -təm-; ˌkɒntɛmˈpleɪʃən /

noun

1. thoughtful or long consideration or observation
2. spiritual meditation esp (in Christian religious practice) concentration of the mind and soul upon God Compare meditation
3. purpose or intention

Other Words From

• precon·tem·plation noun
• recon·tem·plation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of contemplation¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; from Latin contemplātiōn-, stem of contemplātiō; equivalent to contemplate + -ion; replacing Middle English contemplaci(o)un, from Anglo-French, from Latin, as above

Example Sentences

That worked for me, as “Great Gold Bird” is built for contemplation, and I wanted time to process its handling of grief.

From Los Angeles Times

On Tuesday, Khamenia ended months of contemplation over where he wants to play college basketball.

From Los Angeles Times

In his “Commentaries,” Blackstone argued that life “begins in contemplation of law as soon as an infant is able to stir in the mother's womb,” known as “quickening.”

From Salon

I sat, caught in contemplation, mulling over moments in my life in which I’ve had to navigate separation and heartbreak.

From Los Angeles Times

Ogun is a warrior associated with metal work; Oshoosi is named after a wandering spirit renowned for hunting as well as contemplation and artistic pleasure.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• meditation
• reflection
• reverie