ruminate
verb (used without object)
to meditate or muse; ponder.
ruminating
-
present participleof ruminate.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Thanks to the dictionary pages she uses for wallpaper, she has a large vocabulary and is prone to ruminating about her ultimate purpose.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 12, 2026
That picture is complex, but ruminating on your actions can quickly become torturous.
From Slate ● Mar. 16, 2026
Of course, some anger and frustration will come out during these talks, but long-term wallowing and ruminating on perceived unfairness can be more damaging than the layoff itself.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 2, 2026
"There is never a moment when you aren't ruminating or reflecting or considering school-related issues," she said.
From BBC ● Feb. 18, 2026
Milo nodded with spurious vim to indicate he still understood and then sat silent, ruminating gravely with troubled misgiving.
From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller
