contemplate

[ kon-tuhm-pleyt, -tem- ]
/ ˈkɒn təmˌpleɪt, -tɛm- /

verb (used with object), con·tem·plat·ed, con·tem·plat·ing.

to look at or view with continued attention; observe or study thoughtfully: to contemplate the stars.
to consider thoroughly; think fully or deeply about: to contemplate a difficult problem.
to have as a purpose; intend.
to have in view as a future event: to contemplate buying a new car.

verb (used without object), con·tem·plat·ed, con·tem·plat·ing.

to think studiously; meditate; consider deliberately.

Origin of contemplate

1585–95; < Latin contemplātus past participle of contemplāre, contemplārī to survey, observe, equivalent to con- con- + templ(um) space marked off for augural observation, temple1 + -ātus -ate1

SYNONYMS FOR contemplate

1 gaze at, behold, regard, survey.
3 design, plan.

OTHER WORDS FROM contemplate

Example sentences from the Web for contemplating

British Dictionary definitions for contemplating

contemplate
/ (ˈkɒntɛmˌpleɪt, -təm-) /

verb (mainly tr)

to think about intently and at length; consider calmly
(intr) to think intently and at length, esp for spiritual reasons; meditate
to look at thoughtfully; observe pensively
to have in mind as a possibility to contemplate changing jobs

Derived forms of contemplate

contemplator, noun

Word Origin for contemplate

C16: from Latin contemplāre, from templum temple 1