dhyana

noun

dhya·​na
dēˈänə,
ˈdyä-
plural -s
1
Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism : meditation
especially : an uninterrupted state of mental concentration upon a single object : higher contemplation
2
usually capitalized : a Mahayana school of Buddhism relying on meditation as a method of enlightenment compare ch'an

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit dhyāna, from dhyāti he thinks

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near dhyana

Cite this Entry

“Dhyana.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dhyana. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!