meditation
This term carries a dual identity, bridging the gap between a disciplined mental exercise and a philosophical inquiry. When used in a spiritual or psychological context, it evokes a sense of stillness, breath control, and the intentional silencing of the internal chatter to reach a state of mindfulness. It is often associated with peace, healing, and the reduction of stress.
In a literary or intellectual context, the word shifts toward a slow, deliberate contemplation. It suggests a deep dive into a specific topic, where the mind lingers on a thought to extract a higher truth. This usage is more formal and academic, evoking the image of a scholar or philosopher pondering a complex moral dilemma in a quiet study.
Countable when referring to a specific session or a written piece of reflective work. Uncountable when referring to the general practice or the state of being meditative.
Meanings
Examples
He spends twenty minutes every morning in deep meditation.
The monk published a series of meditations on the nature of suffering.