Meditation
/ˌmɛdɪˈteɪʃən/noun
The practice of focusing the mind for mental clarity, relaxation, or spiritual insight.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Latin *meditari*, a verb tied to deliberate practice and mental preparation, so its roots are closer to disciplined inner work than passive relaxation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*med-
“to measure, advise, or take thought”
Latin
Latin
meditari
“to think over, reflect on, practice, rehearse”
Late Latin
Latin
meditatio
“a thinking over, contemplation”
Old French
Old French
meditation
“reflection, devotional contemplation”
Middle English
English
meditacioun
“contemplation, devout reflection”
Modern English
English
meditation
“the practice of focused contemplation or mental discipline”