yoga

noun

yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and sometimes meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote physical and emotional well-being
yogic adjective often capitalized

Examples of yoga 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.
Beyond the impressive numbers, yoga has evolved in purpose. Angela Chan-Danisi, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024 Of the 678 global traditions, practices, and human expressions on the list — which include things like Argentine tango, Chinese calligraphy, and Indian yoga — the Sosso-Bala is the only that’s entire history has been maintained within a single family. Eliot Stein, Rolling Stone, 9 Dec. 2024 In the study, 24 healthy study participants had no experience with yoga. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 9 Dec. 2024 Other amenities include a spa, multiple pools, Japanese and Mediterranean dining options, and a gratitude tent for ceremonies, yoga, and wellness sessions. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for yoga 

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, literally, yoking, from yunakti he yokes; akin to Latin jungere to join — more at yoke

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of yoga was in 1785

Dictionary Entries Near yoga

Cite this Entry

“Yoga.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yoga. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu philosophy teaching that by holding back the activity of one's body, mind, and will one can know one's true self and be free
2
: a system of exercises for gaining bodily or mental control and well-being

Medical Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote bodily or mental control and well-being see hatha yoga
yogic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on yoga

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