contemplative
Americanadjective
noun
adjective
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of contemplative
First recorded in 1300–50; from Latin contemplātīvus, from contemplāt(us) “surveyed, observed” ( see contemplate) + -īvus -ive; replacing Middle English contemplatif, from Anglo-French, from Latin, as above
Explanation
The contemplative life is one filled with deep and serious thought, and is often associated with monks, nuns, philosophers, and theorists. The adjective contemplative means "pensive," "meditative," or "brooding." Contemplative moments, of course, aren't restricted to white-bearded hermits living in caves on mountaintops. You might also hear the word when people are talking about yoga or meditation, as these are quiet activities meant to be thoughtfully performed. Some kinds of poetry and music are described as contemplative, especially if they give you space to daydream or think about their themes. A walk through nature can also be a contemplative activity.
Vocabulary lists containing contemplative
The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone
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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 7
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ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The American architect and artist created a contemplative moment with her two-part sculptural fountain: One stone lies flat as water bubbles up and over it, while an adjacent 11-foot-tall stone oculus emits a gentle mist.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 16, 2026
Here, Wembanyama has long shown a thoughtful mien: attentive, contemplative and, sure, a little nerdy.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 1, 2026
The camera lingers on a boombox on a shelf as she sets out on a contemplative drive.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 7, 2026
For nearly 14 years, I’ve returned to this contemplative missive through every bump in the occupational road or moment of professional strife.
From Salon ● Mar. 22, 2026
His eyes were a contemplative, watery gray and the hair which protruded from under his Stetson hat was spiky and weathered.
From "The Red Pony" by John Steinbeck
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
