Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Cogitate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿง 
Add to dictionary

cogitate

[หˆkษ’dส’ษชteษชt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

thinking deeply

To cogitate means to think deeply or carefully about something. It often implies a process of deliberation and reflection where one considers various aspects of a topic before drawing conclusions. Cogitation may also involve problem-solving, as it requires concentration and thoughtful analysis. This term is often used in academic or intellectual contexts where critical thinking is essential.

Synonyms

consider, contemplate, ponder, reflect.

Examples of usage

  • She needed to cogitate before making a final decision.
  • The scientist took time to cogitate over the results of the experiment.
  • He prefers to cogitate in silence, away from distractions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Deep thinking is associated with problem-solving and creativity, engaging different areas of the brain.
  • Cognitive reflection, a component of decision-making, is the process of thinking through options before acting.
  • Mindfulness practices often encourage the act of cogitating to enhance self-awareness.

Philosophy

  • Cogitation is seen as a critical part of rational thought in many philosophical traditions.
  • Renรฉ Descartes famously stated, 'Cogito, ergo sum' (I think, therefore I am), highlighting the importance of thought in existence.
  • Philosophers have debated the nature of thought and its relation to reality for centuries.

Literature

  • Cogitating characters often feature in literature, reflecting on their choices and circumstances.
  • In Shakespeare's works, characters often engage in cogitation before making significant decisions.
  • Classic literature sometimes contrasts action with cogitation to explore the human condition.

Pop Culture

  • Shows often depict characters cogitating to create suspense before big reveals or decisions.
  • In many mystery novels, detectives perform deep cogitation to solve cases and unearth truths.
  • Movies with strong plot twists often require viewers to cogitate on clues presented throughout the narrative.

Origin of 'cogitate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'cogitare', which means 'to think'.
  • It is formed from 'co-' meaning 'together' and 'agere', meaning 'to drive or lead'.
  • This term has been used in English since the early 17th century.

The word 'cogitate' originates from the Latin verb 'cogitare,' which means 'to think, consider, or reflect.' This Latin term is derived from the prefix 'co-' meaning 'together' and 'agitare,' meaning 'to set in motion,' which relates to the idea of bringing thoughts together in a mental process. The first recorded use of 'cogitate' in English dates back to the late 16th century. Over the centuries, the term has been adopted predominantly in philosophical, academic, and literary discussions, emphasizing deep and serious thought. As intellectual pursuits became more valued during the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods, the use of 'cogitate' evolved to articulate the importance of careful consideration and reflective thinking, integral to these movements.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,308, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.