Ruminative/ˈruːmɪneɪtɪv/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Extended Thought Use 'ruminative' when someone thinks deeply for a long time, not for quick thoughts. She was in a ruminative state all day after the lecture. Pro Tip 2/3Not Necessarily Positive 'Ruminative' can imply overthinking or worrying, not just deep thinking. His ruminative thoughts kept him awake at night. Pro Tip 3/3Subject Depth 'Ruminative' often refers to thoughts on complex or serious subjects. The novel’s ruminative narrative added to its sophistication.