verb
ponder
PAHN-der/ˈpɑːndər/
To think about something carefully and at length.
She pauses to ponder her options before making a decision.
Etymology
Latin ponderare meant literally “to weigh” as well as “to consider.” Ponder applies that image to thought: carefully weighing a matter in the mind.
In context
Biblical poems are a bottomless well. They are packed with a surplus of meaning for those who are willing to slow down and ponder them.
More examples
- We pondered the offer for several days.
- He sits quietly, pondering why the plan failed.
- The question gives us plenty to ponder.
Forms
ponder · ponders · pondered · pondering
Similar words
- consider
- Can involve briefer attention, especially when evaluating an option.
- reflect
- Often emphasizes looking back on experiences and their meaning.
- contemplate
- Can emphasize imagining a possibility rather than weighing a question.