verb
conceive
kun-SEEV/kənˈsiːv/
To form or grasp an idea in the mind.
The designer conceives a stool that folds into a flat panel.
Etymology
With con- perhaps adding emphasis, “taking in and holding” describes both receiving seed in the womb and taking an idea into the mind.
In context
the king heard me with attention and began to conceive a much better opinion of me than he ever had before
More examples
- She conceived a new approach.
- They are conceiving alternatives to the original plan.
- He could not conceive of such a change.
Forms
conceive · conceives · conceived · conceiving
conception noun — formation of an idea or pregnancy