: a Chinese geomantic practice in which a structure or site is chosen or configured so as to harmonize with the spiritual forces that inhabit it
also : orientation, placement, or arrangement according to the precepts of feng shui

Examples of feng shui in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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They’ve even been known to consult a feng shui expert or two. Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 8 June 2025 To create an inviting space, the feng shui expert recommends the green and blue color families. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 May 2025 An expert shares some of the most common feng shui mistakes—and how to avoid them in your home. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2025 Get inspired to refresh your space with these dos and don'ts for improving feng shui in the Lunar New Year. Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for feng shui

Word History

Etymology

Chinese (Beijing) fēngshui geomantic omen, literally, wind-water

First Known Use

1797, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of feng shui was in 1797

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Cite this Entry

“Feng shui.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feng%20shui. Accessed 16 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

feng shui

noun
: a Chinese system for positioning a building and objects within a building in a way that is thought to agree with spiritual forces and to bring health and happiness
Etymology

from Chinese fēng "wind" and shǔi "water"

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