Main Entry:

Tao

Pronunciation:

\ˈdau̇, ˈtau̇\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Chinese (Beijing) dào, literally, way

Date:

1736

1 a: the unconditional and unknowable source and guiding principle of all reality as conceived by Taoists b: the process of nature by which all things change and which is to be followed for a life of harmony2often not capitalized : the path of virtuous conduct as conceived by Confucians3often not capitalized : the art or skill of doing something in harmony with the essential nature of the thing <the Tao of archery>