Meditation

Definition

Meditation refers to a practice where an individual uses a technique to focus their mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to train attention and awareness, and achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm and stable state.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌmɛdɪˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: MED-i-TAY-shun (with "MED" as in "medicine," "i" as in "sit," "TAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌmɛdɪˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: MED-i-TAY-shun (with "MED" as in "medicine," "i" as in "sit," "TAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "nation")

In both dialects, "meditation" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "TAY." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "MED-i-TAY-shun."

Etymology

The term "meditation" originates from the Latin word "meditatio," from a verb "meditari," meaning "to think, contemplate, devise, ponder." The usage of the term as related to the practice of reflection or contemplation dates back to ancient times.

Derivatives

• Meditative
• Meditatively
• Meditator
• Meditational
• Meditating

Synonyms

• Contemplation
• Reflection
• Mindfulness

Antonyms

• Distraction
• Agitation
• Turmoil

Usage

General Usage

"Meditation" is commonly understood to refer to practices, often of Eastern origin, that involve focus, relaxation, and mindfulness. It's seen in religious, spiritual, and secular contexts.

Health and Wellness Usage

With the rising interest in wellness and mental health, meditation has gained global popularity as a means to reduce stress, enhance self-awareness, and promote emotional health.

Related Terms

• Zen
• Mindfulness
• Tranquility
• Mantra
• Concentration

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Practice of Focused Attention: A mental exercise involving focus and concentration to achieve a heightened state of awareness and relaxation.
• Example: Daily meditation can help in reducing stress levels.

• Deep Thought or Reflection: The act or process of spending time in quiet thought, often as a religious activity.
• Example: The monk spent hours in meditation, pondering life's mysteries.

• Contemplation or Consideration: An extended or continued thought; reflection; contemplation.
• Example: She was lost in her meditations about her future.