What does meditative mean?
Meditative describes anything associated with meditation or a state of calm, inward reflection. The word is often applied to practices such as breathing exercises, walking, prayer, or quiet observation, as well as to the atmosphere or mental state produced by them. Its strongest implication is not simply thinking carefully, but attending quietly and inwardly, often with an expectation of greater calm, awareness, or clarity. A person may describe music, a landscape, or a period of silence as meditative. In general usage, the adjective can carry a slightly elevated or contemplative tone, but it remains ordinary and is especially common in discussions of wellness, spirituality, art, and reflective routines. Meditative and reflective overlap, although meditative more specifically suggests focused inward attention and tranquility rather than ordinary thought or analysis.
adjectiveRelating to, involving, or intended for meditation; conducive to thoughtful, inward reflection.
- Involving or intended for meditation.
- Characterized by calm, sustained inward reflection.
"She spent a few quiet minutes in a meditative state before beginning the day's work."
"The music created a meditative atmosphere in the crowded gallery."
"Daily walking became a meditative practice that helped him clear his thoughts."
Meditative describes that rare moment when the restless mind finally becomes still enough to notice itself.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does meditative come from?
Meditative entered English in the early 17th century. It was formed from the Latin adjective meditativus, meaning “of or relating to meditation,” which was connected with meditari, “to ponder, consider, or practise meditation.” The English word belongs to the same Latin-derived family as meditation, meditative practice, and related forms concerning sustained reflection or contemplation.
Related word forms
How meditative is actually used
Meditative is generally formal and is most often used for activities, experiences, practices, and states that encourage inward attention or tranquility. It is less commonly used to describe a person directly.
Easily confused with meditative
Reflective describes thoughtful consideration in general, whereas meditative more specifically suggests sustained inward attention, calmness, or contemplation.
Contemplative often characterizes a person or state engaged in serious thought, while meditative is especially common for activities and practices intended to foster inner calm or reflection.