Definition of the word contemplation

The word "contemplation" can be traced back to the Latin verb contemnere, which means "to think deeply about" or "to regard with profound attention". The Latin prefix con-, meaning "together", was added to temnere, meaning "to look at", to create contemnere, reinforcing the idea of introspection and careful consideration. When the word was adopted into Old French in the 11th century as contemperer, it retained this meaning, particularly in its religious context. From there, it made its way into Middle English in the 13th century and eventually into Modern English as contemplation, carrying with it its historical linguistic roots and continuing to convey the idea of deep thought or reflection.