To think carefully about something, weighing different options before making a decision.
From Latin 'deliberare' (to weigh well), composed of 'de-' (thoroughly) and 'librare' (to weigh, balance). The meaning evolved from the literal sense of weighing objects to the figurative sense of weighing options mentally.
The word 'deliberate' comes from the same root as 'libra' (the balance scales), which is why it literally means to 'weigh' your options—ancient Romans actually used balance scales as a metaphor for careful thinking!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.