contemplation

American  

[kon-tuhm-pley-shuhn, -tem-] / ˌkɒn təmˈpleɪ ʃən, -tɛm- /

noun

1. the act of contemplating; thoughtful observation.

2. full or deep consideration; reflection.

   religious contemplation.

3. purpose or intention.

4. prospect or expectation.

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contemplation British  

/ -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

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Other Word Forms

• precontemplation noun
• recontemplation noun

Etymology

Origin of contemplation

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

The opening “Waiting Around” is a solid distillation of his strengths, with attractive seesaw chords and a melody that lingers slightly behind the beat, conveying the uncertainty and contemplation of the lyrics.

From The Wall Street Journal

Sinclair said it acquired the stake “in contemplation of a possible combination,” or merger, with the company.

From MarketWatch

Sinclair said it acquired the stake “in contemplation of a possible combination,” or merger, with the company.

From MarketWatch

The music, most of it from the early 17th century, is more austere, demanding concentration and contemplation.

From The Wall Street Journal

The film is a more of a quiet, wintry contemplation.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• meditation
• reflection
• reverie