Definition of yin
: the feminine passive principle in nature that in Chinese cosmology is exhibited in darkness, cold, or wetness and that combines with yang to produce all that comes to be
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Recent Examples of yin from the Web
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In a rare display of perfect yin and yang, every single rumor uttered in recent months has produced its equal and opposite anti-rumor.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'yin'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of yin
Chinese (Beijing) yīn
First Known Use: 1671
Other Philosophy Terms
YIN Defined for English Language Learners
yin
playDefinition of yin for English Language Learners
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in Chinese philosophy : one of the two forces that together form everything that exists : the female principle of the universe that is considered dark and passive and is associated with earth
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See words that rhyme with yin Nglish: Translation of yin for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about yin
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