(Adjective) Engaged with reality in a direct, nonconceptual, immediate and natural way, at one with the present moment.

(Noun) “A contemplative” is someone who is committed to cultivating a contemplative way of being and taking a contemplative path through life.

In “contemplative spirituality”, one cultivates “contemplation” as a naturally arising fruit of spiritual growth, beyond techniques or willful efforts — a gift received rather than an accomplishment.

Not that it matters, but most theology wonks pronounce it “con-TEM-pluh-tiv” (sounds like “contemporary”), and not “con-tem-PLATE-iv”. The dictionary says both are OK.

see also: meditation & contemplation