SINCE 1828
Mahayana
noun
Ma·ha·ya·na
| \ ˌmä-hə-ˈyä-nə
\
\
Definition of Mahayana
: a liberal and theistic branch of Buddhism comprising sects chiefly in China and Japan, recognizing a large body of scripture in addition to the Pali canon, and teaching social concern and universal salvation — compare theravada
Other Words from Mahayana
Mahayanist
\ -ˈyä-nist
\
noun or adjective
\
noun or adjective
Mahayanistic
\ -yä-ˈnis-tik
\
adjective
\
adjective
Keep scrolling for more
Learn More about Mahayana
From the Editors at Merriam-Webster
A 12-Word Journey on the Buddhist Path
A 12-Word Journey on the Buddhist Path
Wordies read on for enlightenment.
Comments on Mahayana
What made you want to look up Mahayana? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Liar, Liar Quiz
-
- Someone who pretends to be sick in order to avoid work is a:
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Liar, Liar Quiz
Test your knowledge of words for lies, liars, and those being lied to. In other words, everyone.
Take the quiz -
Winter Words Quiz
Take the quiz -
True or False?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
Take the quiz -
SCRABBLE® Sprint
SCRABBLE® fans, sharpen your skills!
Play the game
Share Mahayana
Resources for Mahayana