Confucian

adjective

Con·​fu·​cian kən-ˈfyü-shən How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
: of or relating to the Chinese philosopher Confucius or his teachings or followers
Confucian noun
Confucianism noun
Confucianist noun or adjective

Examples of Confucian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the Confucian culture of Han China, such actions were considered highly inappropriate for women, but Empress Dowager Ling carried them out while holding the Chinese title of empress dowager. Stephanie Balkwill, The Conversation, 17 Mar. 2025 The ghosts debate the nature of China’s modernity, the struggle between Confucian and Legalist traditions, and the influence of Japanese versus European ideas on the New Culture Movement. Philip Tinari, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2025 This trio of industry players hope the Confucian concept rings true for circularity’s sake. Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 24 Feb. 2025 In fact, the Confucian thought-world was capacious and flexible. Rana Mitter, Foreign Affairs, 20 Feb. 2024 Kim added that the pursuit of individualism in Korea coexists with a sense of community, rooted in Confucian values, and a collective yearning for freedom stemming from Japanese occupation and dictatorial regimes. Hanna Park, CNN, 13 Jan. 2025 Founded by Emperor Hongwu, the dynasty is known for restoring Han Chinese governance and promoting Confucian values. Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 15 Dec. 2024 Regardless of their religious backgrounds, many refugee Southeast Asian families were familiar with, and still observed, Confucian customs governing gendered behavior and fathers’ authority. H.m.a. Leow, JSTOR Daily, 12 Dec. 2024 Those old-school Confucian family dynamics, Ng said, are increasingly being tempered with a sense of autonomy. Kimmy Yam, NBC News, 15 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Confucian was in 1837

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Cite this Entry

“Confucian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Confucian. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

Confucian

adjective
Con·​fu·​cian kən-ˈfyü-shən How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
: of or relating to the Chinese philosopher Confucius or his teachings or followers
Confucian noun
Confucianism noun
Confucianist noun or adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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