n. [ L. consideratio: cf. F. considération. ] 1. The act or process of considering; continuous careful thought; examination; contemplation; deliberation; attention. [ 1913 Webster ]

Let us think with consideration. Sir P. Sidney. [ 1913 Webster ]

Consideration, like an angel, came. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Attentive respect; appreciative regard; -- used especially in diplomatic or stately correspondence. [ 1913 Webster ]

The undersigned has the honor to repeat to Mr. Hulseman the assurance of his high consideration. D. Webster. [ 1913 Webster ]

The consideration with which he was treated. Whewell. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Thoughtful or sympathetic regard or notice. [ 1913 Webster ]

Consideration for the poor is a doctrine of the church. Newman. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. Claim to notice or regard; some degree of importance or consequence. [ 1913 Webster ]

Lucan is the only author of consideration among the Latin poets who was not explained for . . . the Dauphin. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]

5. The result of delibration, or of attention and examonation; matured opinion; a reflection; as, considerations on the choice of a profession. [ 1913 Webster ]

6. That which is, or should be, taken into account as a ground of opinion or action; motive; reason. [ 1913 Webster ]

He was obliged, antecedent to all other considerations, to search an asylum. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

Some considerations which are necessary to the forming of a correct judgment. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

7. (Law) The cause which moves a contracting party to enter into an agreement; the material cause of a contract; the price of a stripulation; compensation; equivalent. Bouvier. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ Consideration is what is done, or promised to be done, in exchange for a promise, and “as a mere advantage to the promisor without detriment to the promisee would not avail, the proper test is detriment to the promisee.” Wharton. [ 1913 Webster ]