To ponder means to think about something carefully and deeply, turning it over in your mind from different angles. When you ponder a question, you sit with it, examining it, letting your thoughts explore different possibilities and considering it from multiple perspectives.

You might ponder which book to read next for your report, weighing what interests you against how challenging each one seems. A scientist ponders experimental results, trying to figure out what they reveal. A chess player ponders her next move, imagining how the game might unfold in several different directions.

Pondering takes time. It's the opposite of a snap decision or a gut reaction. When your teacher asks a hard question and you need a moment to think, you're pondering. When you lie in bed at night wondering about something that happened during the day, you're pondering it.

The word suggests quiet, serious thought. You might ponder big questions like what you want to be when you grow up, or smaller puzzles like why your friend seemed upset at lunch. Either way, pondering means giving something the gift of your full attention and thoughtful consideration.