mull
UK[mʌl]US[mʌl]
v
to think about a fact, proposal, or idea deeply and at length
v
to heat, sweeten, and flavor (wine or beer) with spices
Etymology
the verb 'mull' presents an etymological puzzle with two distinct meanings that likely converged from different sources. the sense of "pondering deeply" may derive from a figurative use of the other meaning, which is "to heat, sweeten, and spice wine or ale." this culinary sense is thought to come from middle english, possibly related to the process of grinding spices into a fine powder. over time, the idea of mentally "heating up" or "stirring around" a thought evolved into the modern abstract meaning of careful consideration. despite their different applications, both uses retain a core concept of applying a process—either physical or mental—to transform something.
Analysis
this word is a simplex form. its origin is uncertain but may be related to middle english mul, meaning to moisten or crumble, or to the practice of grinding spices.
Examples
she took a moment to mull over the job offer before giving her answer.
the traditional winter drink was made by mulling red wine with cinnamon and oranges.
the committee will need a few days to mull the implications of the new data.