meditation

noun

med·​i·​ta·​tion ˌme-də-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce meditation (audio)
Synonyms of meditationnext
1
: a discourse intended to express its author's reflections or to guide others in contemplation
2
: the act or process of meditating
… the meditation out of which this novel has come.—Granville Hicks

Synonyms of meditation

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Examples of meditation in a Sentence

She spent the morning in meditation. Daily meditation helps clear his mind.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Plan low-key gatherings like a cozy dinner or weekend hike to stay socially connected, and try mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 23 Oct. 2026 In new programs, interactions with horses go beyond riding to meditation, yoga and therapy that practitioners say can help restore life balance. — Ondine Cohane, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2026 Here is how to evaluate whether a sauna, cold plunge or meditation garden deserves space (and spend) in your yard right now. — Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 Oct. 2026 Mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing add another layer of stability. — Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for meditation

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of meditation was in the 13th century

Rhymes for meditation

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Browse Nearby Words

meditatingly
meditation
meditative
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Cite this Entry

“Meditation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meditation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

meditation

noun
med·​i·​ta·​tion ˌmed-ə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce meditation (audio)
: the act or an instance of meditating

More from Merriam-Webster on meditation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about meditation

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