'contemplation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'contemplatio,' where 'con-' meant 'with' and 'templum' meant 'temple or sacred space.'

'contemplatio' transformed into the Old French word 'contemplation,' and eventually became the modern English word 'contemplation' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'the act of looking at something attentively,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'deep reflective thought.'