Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Contemplation \Con`tem*pla"tion\, n. [F. contemplation, L.
   contemplatio.]
   1. The act of the mind in considering with attention;
      continued attention of the mind to a particular subject;
      meditation; musing; study.

            In contemplation of created things, By steps we may
            ascend to God.                        --Milton.

            Contemplation is keeping the idea which is brought
            into the mind for some time actually in view.
                                                  --Locke.

   2. Holy meditation. [Obs.]

            To live in prayer and contemplation.  --Shak.

   3. The act of looking forward to an event as about to happen;
      expectation; the act of intending or purposing.

            In contemplation of returning at an early date, he
            left.                                 --Reid.

   {To have in contemplation}, to inted or purpose, or to have
      under consideration.