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thinking

n. · adj.
US //ˈθɪŋkɪŋ// UK //θˈɪŋkɪŋ// think·ing
  1. 1 the process of using your mind (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the activity of using your brain to solve problems or understand something.

    the process of using one's mind to consider or reason about something; often uncountable.

    Example

    The project requires a lot of careful thinking before we start.

    Example

    Critical thinking is a fundamental skill that allows students to evaluate evidence and form logical conclusions independently.
  2. 2 opinions or ideas (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a person's ideas or opinions about a particular subject.

    the ideas, opinions, or judgements of a particular person or group.

    Example

    What is the current thinking on how to fix the economy?

    Example

    The shift in management's thinking led to a complete overhaul of the company's environmental policies.
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  1. 3 intelligent or rational (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    used to describe a person who uses their mind and thinks deeply.

    characterised by the use of the intellect; rational or capable of thought.

    Example

    She is a thinking person who doesn't just follow the crowd.

    Example

    The documentary was designed to appeal to the thinking viewer who enjoys complex social commentary.
Etymology 1

From Middle English thinking, thynkynge, thenkyng, equivalent to think + -ing.

Etymology 2

From Middle English thenkinge, þinkynge, þenkynge, þenchinde, from Old English þenċende, from Proto-Germanic þankijandz, present participle of þankijaną (“to think”), equivalent to think + -ing. Cognate with Dutch denkend (“thinking”), German denkend (“thinking”), Swedish tänkande (“thinking”).

Idioms6 entries

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