rumination

noun

1. The act of thinking deeply and carefully about something.

   B2

   usually uncountableformal

   • "After some rumination, she decided to accept the offer."B2
   • "His quiet rumination led him to a better understanding of the problem."C1

2. The act of repeatedly thinking about worries, problems, or negative experiences.

   C1

   usually uncountable

   • "Rumination kept him awake for hours."B2
   • "Constant rumination can make anxiety and sadness feel more intense."C1

3. The process by which certain animals, such as cows, bring up and chew partly digested food again.

   C2

   uncountabletechnical

   • "Rumination helps cows digest grass."B1
   • "The animal's digestive system depends on rumination to break down tough plant material."C1