contemplate etymology

Etymology

• Origin: Latin contemplari, meaning "to gaze at, consider, meditate upon"
• Root: con- ("together") + templum ("temple, sacred space")

Meaning

• To think deeply: To engage in prolonged and focused thought, considering different aspects of a subject or problem.
• To meditate: To reflect on something in a calm and focused way, often for spiritual or philosophical purposes.
• To consider thoroughly: To examine something carefully and objectively, evaluating its pros and cons and potential outcomes.

Origin

The word "contemplate" traces its origins to ancient Rome, where the temple (templum) was a sacred space used for religious ceremonies and rituals. Contemplation originally referred to the act of gazing at or contemplating the temple, which was a symbol of the divine and a place where people sought guidance and inspiration.

Over time, the meaning of contemplate evolved to include any form of deep thinking, reflection, and consideration. It became synonymous with the act of engaging in thoughtful contemplation, particularly for religious or philosophical purposes.

Usage

• Scientists contemplate the nature of the universe.
• Poets contemplate the beauty of nature.
• Philosophers contemplate the meaning of life.
• Religious leaders contemplate the teachings of their faith.
• Individuals contemplate their life choices and goals.

Examples

• I spent hours contemplating the abstract painting, trying to decipher its hidden meaning.
• The monk secluded himself in a cave to contemplate the teachings of Buddha.
• The scientist pondered the implications of the new discovery, contemplating its potential impact on society.
• The couple sat in silence, contemplating their future together.
• We need to take time to contemplate our values and priorities before making any major decisions.

contemplate relate terms

• temple

  Etymology The English word temple is derived from the Latin word templum which in t

• temple

  Etymology The English word temple is derived from the Latin word templum which in t

• contemplative

  Etymology of Contemplative From Latin contemplativus meaning given to contemplati

• contemplate

  Etymology Origin Latin contemplari meaning to gaze at consider meditate upon Root

• meditate

  Etymology Latin meditāri to think over ponder consider Proto Indo European me

• ponder

  Etymology The word ponder originates from the Latin verb ponderare which means to w

• Muse

  Etymology of Muse The word muse is derived from the Ancient Greek word μούσα

• survey

  Etymology French survoir to look over oversee Meaning A method of gathering

• speculate

  Speculate Etymology Latin speculari to observe to watch From specere to look

• contemplation

  Etymology From Middle English contemplacioun from Old French contemplacion from Latin

• admire

  Etymology The word admire comes from the Latin word admirari which means to wonder

• think

  Etymology Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words It involves tracing

• study

  Etymology Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words and phrases It inves

• introspect

  Etymology The word introspect originates from the Latin words intro meaning inward