Excogitation

/ɛkskɑdʒɪˈteɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The act or process of thinking something out thoroughly; a thought, idea, or device that has been carefully worked out through mental effort.

Etymology

From Latin 'excogitatio' (thorough thinking), derived from 'excogitare.' The noun '-tion' form is standard for abstract nouns from Latin verbs.

Kelly Says

In Renaissance writing, 'excogitation' described the process of genius—how great minds would work through problems to create new knowledge or inventions, treating thinking itself as a serious, worthy activity.

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