noun
rishi
RIH-shee
noun
1
In Hindu tradition, a sage or seer credited with composing the ancient Vedic hymns.
"The scriptures name several rishis said to have received the hymns directly."
2
More broadly, a revered spiritual teacher or holy man in Indian tradition.
"Villagers walked for days to seek the rishi's advice."
How to Use Rishi
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA wise, saintly figure in Hindu tradition, roughly equivalent to a prophet or sage in other cultures.
Word Forms
rishis plural, Rishis plural, Rishies plural
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The scriptures name several _____ said to have received the hymns directly.
Etymology
From Sanskrit ऋषि (ṛṣi), meaning "seer," an ancient word going back to Proto-Indo-Iranian roots for someone who perceives or channels sacred knowledge.