Definition of contemplationnext
1
as in meditation
long or deep thinking about spiritual matters the decision to enter a monastery and to spend one's life in prayer and contemplation

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2
as in anticipation
the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence in contemplation of their children's college expenses, they started saving early

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contemplation The previous gray and achromatic hue created the illusion of greater depth and prompted more profound contemplation, the group said. Susan Page, USA Today, 17 May 2026 Selzer’s contemplations bring together literature, history, philosophy, medicine, and ruminations. Literary Hub, 14 May 2026 Art beckons at Rothko Chapel and The Menil Collection, quiet sanctuaries where light, color, and contemplation merge. Carrie Honaker, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 May 2026 True to its intent, this restaurant is indeed a calm yet joy-evoking space for quiet contemplation. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contemplation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contemplation
Noun
  • Wellness classes are complimentary and include yoga, pilates, sound bath healing, meditation, and HIIT workouts.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • Effective CEOs can attend to their mental and emotional states through intentional self-care, exercise, journaling, meditation, and by blocking out time to truly connect with those most important to them, no matter what.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026
Noun
  • Florida’s legislature passed new congressional districts just hours after the ruling, completing a redrawing that was in the works in anticipation of the decision.
    Jack Brook, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026
  • All the secrecy and almost solemnity added to the anticipation of a launch that was five years in the making.
    Charlotte Reed, CNBC, 29 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Contemplation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contemplation. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

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