Confucian

adjective

Con·​fu·​cian kən-ˈfyü-shən How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
: of or relating to the Chinese philosopher Confucius or his teachings or followers
Confucian noun
Confucianism
kən-ˈfyü-shə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
noun
Confucianist
kən-ˈfyü-shə-nist How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
noun or adjective

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Confucian was in 1837

Rhymes for Confucian

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Browse Nearby Words

confrontment
Confucian
Confucius
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Cite this Entry

“Confucian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Confucian. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

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Kids Definition

Confucian

adjective
Con·​fu·​cian kən-ˈfyü-shən How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
: of or relating to the Chinese philosopher Confucius or his teachings or followers
Confucian noun
Confucianism
-shə-ˌniz-əm How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
noun
Confucianist
-shə-nəst How to pronounce Confucian (audio)
noun or adjective
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