From Latin "contemplativus", meaning "given to contemplation"
From "contemplari", meaning "to behold, gaze upon"
Ultimately derived from the proto-Indo-European root "*tem-", meaning "to extend, stretch out"
Meaning of "Contemplative":
Engaged in or characterized by contemplation:
The act of pondering or reflecting deeply on a subject
A state of quiet thought or meditation
Of or relating to contemplation, as in:
A contemplative attitude or way of life
Contemplative practices, such as meditation or yoga
Origin of "Contemplative":
The concept of contemplation dates back to ancient times, appearing in various cultures and philosophical traditions.
The term "contemplative" entered the English language in the 14th century, borrowed from Old French "contemplatif".
It gained prominence in the 16th and 17th centuries within the context of Christian mysticism and devotional practices.
In recent decades, the term has been used more broadly to describe practices and states of mind that emphasize awareness, mindfulness, and self-reflection.