Buddhism

noun

: a religion of eastern and central Asia growing out of the teaching of Siddhārtha Gautama that suffering is inherent in life and that one can be liberated from it by cultivating wisdom, virtue, and concentration
Buddhist
ˈbü-dist How to pronounce Buddhism (audio)
ˈbu̇-
noun or adjective
Buddhistic adjective

Examples of Buddhism 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.
The spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism marked the milestone with significant announcements about his future, including plans to reincarnate after death and hopes to live until age 130. Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025 Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, is the spiritual head of Tibetan Buddhism, which is estimated to have millions of followers across the world. Britt Clennett, ABC News, 7 July 2025 For his part, the current Dalai Lama has made clear that any candidate appointed by Beijing will hold no legitimacy in the eyes of Tibetans or followers of Tibetan Buddhism. Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 3 July 2025 The space itself is calming and approachable — even for people with no knowledge of Buddhism. Lauren Costantino updated July 3, Miami Herald, 3 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for Buddhism

Word History

First Known Use

1800, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Buddhism was in 1800

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Cite this Entry

“Buddhism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Buddhism. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

Buddhism

noun
: a religion of eastern and central Asia growing out of the teaching of Gautama Buddha
Buddhist
ˈbüd-əst How to pronounce Buddhism (audio)
ˈbu̇d-
noun or adjective
Buddhistic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on Buddhism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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