mandala

noun

man·​da·​la ˈmən-də-lə 

1

: a Hindu or Buddhist graphic symbol of the universe

specifically : a circle enclosing a square with a deity on each side that is used chiefly as an aid to meditation

2

: a graphic and often symbolic pattern usually in the form of a circle divided into four separate sections or bearing a multiple projection of an image

mandalic

ˌmən-ˈda-lik 

adjective

Examples of mandala in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other culturally fluent moments appear in small details, like the mandala bowls in the bathroom. — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 29 July 2026

The workshop focuses on creating a mandala design inspired by the surrounding cloud forest. — Emese MacZko, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

Last weekend, after seeing the work of land artist Mayumi Nakabayashi, I was inspired to make a nature mandala in my backyard from garden clippings that my husband had put in a pile. — Jancee Dunn, New York Times, 25 June 2026

Four designs are available, including this pale blue mandala option. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 4 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit maṇḍala circle

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1