chakra

noun

chak·​ra ˈchä-krə How to pronounce chakra (audio)
ˈshä-,
ˈchə- How to pronounce chakra (audio)
: any of several points of physical or spiritual energy in the human body according to yoga philosophy

Did you know?

The human body has more than 88,000 points of physical or spiritual energy according to yoga philosophy, each known as a chakra. In Hinduism there are seven major chakras, and in Tantra (practices outlined in later Hindu or Buddhist scriptures) there are four, each associated with a color, shape, sense organ, natural element, deity, and mantra. The most important are the heart chakra, the chakra at the base of the spine, and the chakra at the top of the head.

Examples of chakra 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.
Lee broke down the colors and the corresponding chakras below: Red / Root Chakra The root chakra governs our basic needs for survival, material needs, physical security and stability. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 26 Apr. 2025 The body’s chakras Yogis believe that the body contains many chakras: spinning wheels, or energy centers, where feelings, emotions, and thoughts converge. Tony Sanchez, Time, 25 Apr. 2025 Associated with your throat chakra, Boettcher says that blue is tied to your communication. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 11 Apr. 2025 According to spiritual practices, this energetic field reflects our physical and spiritual well-being and is comprised of several layers: Each layer corresponds to a different chakra, emotional or spiritual aspects of our lives, and the expression of our personalities. Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for chakra

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit cakra, literally, wheel — more at wheel

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chakra was in 1888

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chakra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chakra. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on chakra

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!