Ponder

As a Verb

1. To think deeply and carefully about something.
2. To consider an idea, decision, or problem with great thought before acting.

As Other Form

• Ponderous (Adjective): Slow or heavy due to deep thought or seriousness.

Word History

The word ponder comes from the Latin ponderare, meaning “to weigh” or “consider carefully,” derived from pondus (weight). Originally, it referred to weighing physical objects, but over time, it came to mean weighing thoughts or ideas mentally.

Examples

1. He sat quietly to ponder his next move.
2. She pondered the consequences before making a decision.
3. The scientist pondered the results of the experiment.

Synonyms

Contemplate, reflect, consider, meditate, deliberate

Related Words

Think, evaluate, analyze, reason

Antonyms

Ignore, dismiss, overlook, disregard