ponder
26 synonyms and 0 antonyms for ponder, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To think about something carefully and for a long time.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use ponder
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French ponderer, "to weigh," from Latin ponderāre, from pondus ("weight") — to ponder is literally to "weigh" an idea in your mind.
Full origin of ponder →Frequently asked questions
What does “ponder” mean?
The word “ponder” means to think about something carefully and for a long time. In plain terms, to think deeply and carefully about something before deciding or answering.
How do you pronounce “ponder”?
“Ponder” is pronounced PON-duh (/ˈpɑn.dəɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ponder” in a sentence?
Here is “ponder” used in a sentence: “She sat by the window, pondering her next move.”
What is another word for “ponder”?
Words with a similar meaning to “ponder” include cogitate, deliberate, afterthink, agitate, bethink and call to mind.
What part of speech is “ponder”?
“Ponder” is a verb.
Where does the word “ponder” come from?
The word “ponder” comes from Latin. From Old French ponderer, "to weigh," from Latin ponderāre, from pondus ("weight") — to ponder is literally to "weigh" an idea in your mind.
Is “ponder” a common word?
“Ponder” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.