noun

mandala

MUHN-duh-luh

Mandala (noun) means a symbolic circular design representing the universe, used in Hindu and Buddhist traditions as an aid to meditation. Example: “Monks spent days creating an intricate sand mandala.”

noun

A symbolic circular design representing the universe, used in Hindu and Buddhist traditions as an aid to meditation.

"Monks spent days creating an intricate sand mandala."

"She keeps a mandala coloring book to help her relax."

One of the ten books into which the Rigveda, an ancient Hindu scripture, is divided.

"Scholars often study the Rigveda mandala by mandala."

How to use mandala

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA circular, often highly detailed spiritual or decorative design symbolizing wholeness and the universe.

Common pairings

sand mandala mandala pattern mandala tattoo

Word forms

mandalas plural, Mandalas plural

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Monks spent days creating an intricate sand _____.

Etymology

Borrowed from Sanskrit मण्डल (mandala), meaning "circle" or "disc."

Origin: Sanskrit

Rhymes for mandala

ala gala sala Kala mala Lala Bala Vala koala scala Ayala impala

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Frequently asked questions

What does “mandala” mean?

The word “mandala” means a symbolic circular design representing the universe, used in Hindu and Buddhist traditions as an aid to meditation. In plain terms, a circular, often highly detailed spiritual or decorative design symbolizing wholeness and the universe.

How do you pronounce “mandala”?

“Mandala” is pronounced MUHN-duh-luh (/ˈmʌn.də.lə/ in IPA).

How do you use “mandala” in a sentence?

Here is “mandala” used in a sentence: “Monks spent days creating an intricate sand mandala.”

What part of speech is “mandala”?

“Mandala” is a noun.

Where does the word “mandala” come from?

The word “mandala” comes from Sanskrit. Borrowed from Sanskrit मण्डल (mandala), meaning "circle" or "disc.".

How many meanings does “mandala” have?

“Mandala” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a symbolic circular design representing the universe, used in Hindu and Buddhist traditions as an aid to meditation.

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Vocabulary lists that include mandala:

Words with Sanskrit origins