Hinduism

noun

Hin·​du·​ism ˈhin-(ˌ)dü-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce Hinduism (audio)
: the dominant religion of India that emphasizes dharma with its resulting ritual and social observances and often mystical contemplation and ascetic practices

Examples of Hinduism in a Sentence

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Therefore, all the other religions found in India thrive because of Hinduism, and are subordinate to it. Andrew Marantz, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025 Its modern ideologues, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have sought to convert Hinduism from a faith into something more akin to an ethnic identity to better consolidate the political supremacy of India’s Hindu majority. Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025 Nearby Pashupatinath Temple, one of Hinduism’s most important pilgrimage sites, offers a powerful glimpse into Nepal’s spiritual life, while the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa is among the world’s largest and most revered for Tibetan Buddhists. Livia Hengel, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025 His Divine Holiness, the Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism — fled India after being accused of rape, torture and child abuse. Mujib Mashal, New York Times, 3 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Hinduism

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Hinduism was in 1786

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Cite this Entry

“Hinduism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Hinduism. Accessed 5 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

Hinduism

noun
Hin·​du·​ism ˈhin-(ˌ)dü-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce Hinduism (audio)
: a body of social, cultural, and religious beliefs and practices native to the Indian subcontinent

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