MANDALA

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does mandala mean? 

• MANDALA (noun)
  The noun MANDALA has 1 sense:

1. any of various geometric designs (usually circular) symbolizing the universe; used chiefly in Hinduism and Buddhism as an aid to meditation

  Familiarity information: MANDALA used as a noun is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• MANDALA (noun)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Any of various geometric designs (usually circular) symbolizing the universe; used chiefly in Hinduism and Buddhism as an aid to meditation

Classified under:

Nouns denoting man-made objects

Hypernyms ("mandala" is a kind of...):

design; figure; pattern (a decorative or artistic work)

Domain category:

Hindooism; Hinduism (a body of religious and philosophical beliefs and cultural practices native to India and based on a caste system; it is characterized by a belief in reincarnation, by a belief in a supreme being of many forms and natures, by the view that opposing theories are aspects of one eternal truth, and by a desire for liberation from earthly evils)

Buddhism (the teaching of Buddha that life is permeated with suffering caused by desire, that suffering ceases when desire ceases, and that enlightenment obtained through right conduct and wisdom and meditation releases one from desire and suffering and rebirth)