conceive
UK: kənˈsiːv | US: kənˈsiːv
vt. to form or develop an idea, plan, or belief in the mind
vt. to become pregnant with (a child)
vi. to imagine or understand something
The word "conceive" originates from Latin concipere ("to take in, absorb, comprehend"), combining con- (together) and capere (to take). The literal sense of "taking in" evolved metaphorically into "forming an idea" (mental absorption) and biologically into "becoming pregnant" (physical absorption). This dual meaning reflects the Latin root's broad application to both intellectual and physical processes of reception.
She struggled to conceive a solution to the complex problem.
The artist conceived the sculpture while observing nature.
They were overjoyed to learn they had conceived a child.
Ancient philosophers conceived the universe as orderly and rational.
It’s hard to conceive how vast the universe truly is.