contemplation
UK: ˌkɒn.təmˈpleɪ.ʃən | US: ˌkɑːn.təmˈpleɪ.ʃən
n. the act of thinking deeply or carefully about something
n. a state of quiet, focused reflection, often spiritual or philosophical
The word "contemplation" traces back to Latin contemplatio, derived from contemplari ("to observe carefully"). The root templ originally referred to a sacred space (temple), where ancient Roman priests would mark out regions of the sky for divination. Over time, con- (intensifying "with") combined with templ to imply focused mental observation, evolving into the modern sense of deep reflection. The suffix -ation nominalizes the action.
She sat in quiet contemplation by the lake.
The monk spent hours in meditation and contemplation.
His essay reflects deep contemplation on human nature.
The artist’s work invites contemplation of beauty and decay.
Scientific breakthroughs often begin with quiet contemplation of natural phenomena.