contemplatively, adv.
(kənˈtɛmplətɪvlɪ)
[f. prec. adj. + -ly2.]
1. In a contemplative manner, in contemplation.
| 1491 Caxton Vitas Patr. ii. (1495) 217 b/2 The abbot Lucius beynge within a grete pytte and depe; where he helde him selfe contemplatyuely. 1592 Warner Alb. Eng. vii. xxxvii. (1612) 180 And so contemplatiuely heere I with contentment stay. 1860 W. Collins Wom. White i. 32 [He] nodded contemplatively at the boiled chicken, and said, ‘Yes, dear’. |
† 2. Theoretically, as opposed to practically. Obs.
| 1552 Huloet, Contemplatyuelye, theorice. a 1631 Donne in Select. (1840) 34 And he loues himself..contemplatiuely, by knowing as he is known, and practically, by louing, as he is loued. 1656 tr. Comenius' Gate Lat. Unl. §516 Which perceiv contemplatively and practically. |