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

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

The prospect of losing disaster aid has state officials and politicians mulling contingency plans ahead of next week’s election.

From Los Angeles Times

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