SINCE 1828
Taoism
noun
Tao·ism
| \ ˈdau̇-ˌi-zəm
, ˈtau̇-\
, ˈtau̇-\
variants:
or less commonly Daoism \ ˈdau̇-ˌi-zəm
\
\
Definition of Taoism
1
: a Chinese mystical philosophy traditionally founded by Lao-tzu in the sixth century b.c. that teaches conformity to the Tao by unassertive action and simplicity
2
: a religion developed from Taoist philosophy and folk and Buddhist religion and concerned with obtaining long life and good fortune often by magical means
Other Words from Taoism
Taoist
\ ˈdau̇-ist
, ˈtau̇- \
adjective or noun
, ˈtau̇- \
adjective or noun
Taoistic
\ dau̇-ˈi-stik
, tau̇- \
adjective
, tau̇- \
adjective
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for Taoism
Taoism
noun
English Language Learners Definition of Taoism
: a Chinese philosophy based on the writings of Lao-tzu that stresses living simply and honestly and in harmony with nature
See the full definition for Taoism in the English Language Learners Dictionary
Comments on Taoism
What made you want to look up Taoism? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
-
- Which came first?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
Which word entered the English language first?
Take the quiz -
Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
Do you know these earlier meanings of words?
Take the quiz -
Name That Thing
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
Take the quiz -
Word Winder's CrossWinder
Play the game
Share Taoism
Resources for Taoism