Synonym Chooser

How is the word ruminate different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of ruminate are meditate, muse, and ponder. While all these words mean "to consider or examine attentively or deliberately," ruminate implies going over the same matter in one's thoughts again and again but suggests little of either purposive thinking or rapt absorption.

ruminated on past disappointments

When is it sensible to use meditate instead of ruminate?

While in some cases nearly identical to ruminate, meditate implies a definite focusing of one's thoughts on something so as to understand it deeply.

meditated on the meaning of life

When might muse be a better fit than ruminate?

The synonyms muse and ruminate are sometimes interchangeable, but muse suggests a more or less focused daydreaming as in remembrance.

mused upon childhood joys

When is ponder a more appropriate choice than ruminate?

Although the words ponder and ruminate have much in common, ponder implies a careful weighing of a problem or, often, prolonged inconclusive thinking about a matter.

pondered the course of action

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 ruminate Piani, who also wrote the screenplay, includes moments of the scribe at work — that is to say procrastinating, ruminating and occasionally disassociating from the terror of the blank page. Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 27 May 2025 The rapper’s latest includes wistful trap anthems ruminating on his trials and tribulations, as well as menacing drill tracks and more melodic songs tapping into his romantic side to cater to his female fan base — all of which were run by Durk’s legal team before heading to streaming services. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 28 Mar. 2025 Having ruminated on his future with family, a deal that would bring him back to London permanently seemed the best option. Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 30 May 2025 The original closet, the one housed at the company’s offices not far from Union Square, has over the years become a regular stop for filmmakers and other luminaries to score free discs and record videos ruminating about the movies that have shaped their lives. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for ruminate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ruminate
Verb
  • The modern 55 and older homebuyer isn’t looking to sit all day on a recliner pondering our end of life options.
    Jamie Gold, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • The two countries have been engaged in aerial strikes and Trump had been pondering U.S. involvement for the past week.
    Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy, USA Today, 23 June 2025
Verb
  • While Leslie’s book is largely about Lennon, McCartney and their fruitful collaborations, contemplate what George Harrison became.
    John Tamny, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • Wright decided to come out after contemplating suicide in 2006.
    Jeff Nelson, People.com, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • There’s no pressure to perform, no need to entertain or constantly talk.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
  • The band’s repertoire will include a variety of music to entertain audiences of all ages.
    Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • The Senate continues to debate the bill before sending it back to the House.
    Jay O'Brien, ABC News, 30 June 2025
  • The extent of the damage to Tehran’s nuclear program has been hotly debated ever since.
    Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • The county had considered a flood warning system on the river similar to a tornado warning siren about six or seven years ago, but Kelly said the idea never got off the ground and the cost would have been an issue.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 6 July 2025
  • If your apartment balcony, backyard patio, front porch, or garden corner could use a little love, consider adding a bistro set to your outdoor space.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 July 2025
Verb
  • For Peck, starring on Broadway has long been a dream: Prior to launching his wildly successful musical career, Peck studied acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) and worked in classical theater on London’s West End.
    Nigel Smith, People.com, 6 July 2025
  • To determine which Chicago residents are at the highest risk during heat waves, team members are studying factors that can worsen or alleviate someone’s experience of extreme heat.
    Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 6 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ruminate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ruminate. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

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