Contemplation
/ˌkɒntəmˈpleɪʃən/
Definitions
The act of looking thoughtfully at something for a long time; deep reflective thought.
/ˌkɒntəmˈpleɪʃən/
The act of thinking deeply about something.
She sat in quiet contemplation, trying to solve the puzzle.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're staring out the window, lost in your thoughts. Contemplation is that feeling of really thinking, processing what's going on in your head. Like when you're trying to decide what to eat or trying to solve a tricky problem.
👶 For kids: Thinking really hard about something, like when you're deciding what game to play!
More Examples
The artist's work often reflects themes of contemplation and introspection.
After the stressful day, he sought the peacefulness of a solitary walk for contemplation.
How It's Used
"Philosophical contemplation on the nature of existence."
"Meditation and contemplation are central practices in many religions."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
lost in contemplation
Deeply engrossed in thought.
"He was lost in contemplation and didn't hear the phone ring."
From Latin *contemplatio* ('a gazing at, observing, consideration'), from *contemplari* ('to observe, consider'), from *templum* ('a space for observation, temple').
Used extensively in philosophical and religious texts throughout history, referring to deep reflection and spiritual practices.
Memory tip
Think of a temple (templum) as a place for quiet observation and thought.
Word Origin
"to observe, consider, gaze at"