meditative

UK: ˈmed.ɪ.tə.tɪv | US: ˈmed.ə.teɪ.t̬ɪv

Definition
  1. adj. characterized by deep or focused thought; contemplative

  2. adj. relating to or conducive to meditation

Structure
meditat <think deeply>ive <adjective suffix>
Etymology

meditative = meditat<think deeply> + ive<adjective suffix>

  • meditat: Derived from Latin meditari ("to think, reflect, contemplate"), from meditatus, past participle of meditari. The root medi- implies "to measure or ponder."
  • ive: A suffix forming adjectives from verbs or nouns, indicating "having the nature of" (from Latin -ivus).

Etymology Origin:
The word meditative traces back to the Latin meditari, which originally meant "to measure" in a mental sense—reflecting the deliberate, measured pace of deep thought. Over time, it evolved to emphasize introspection and spiritual contemplation, particularly in practices like meditation. The suffix -ive transforms the verb into an adjective, capturing the essence of a reflective state.

Examples
  1. She sat in a meditative pose, her eyes closed and breathing steady.

  2. The garden’s quiet atmosphere made it a perfect meditative space.

  3. His meditative approach to problem-solving often yielded innovative solutions.

  4. The book encourages a meditative mindset to reduce stress.

  5. Walking through the forest had a meditative effect on her.