yoga

noun

yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
Yoga : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and sometimes meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote physical and emotional well-being
yogic adjective
often Yogic

Examples of yoga in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yoga, meditation, or astrology might have an extra appeal to you right now. Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026 Some were told to practice more self-care, as if a yoga class could fix a neurodevelopmental condition compounded by systemic abandonment. Sarah Oreck, SELF, 2 Mar. 2026 Planned neighborhood amenities include a yoga studio, pool, and workspace. The Week Us, TheWeek, 2 Mar. 2026 The session will be conducted by YogaMihi instructor Rathna Noojibail, an experienced yoga/meditation teacher and yoga therapist. Hema Sivanandam, Mercury News, 2 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for yoga

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, literally, yoking, from yunakti he yokes; akin to Latin jungere to join — more at yoke

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of yoga was in 1785

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Yoga.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yoga. Accessed 4 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu philosophy teaching that by holding back the activity of one's body, mind, and will one can know one's true self and be free
2
: a system of exercises for gaining bodily or mental control and well-being

Medical Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote bodily or mental control and well-being see hatha yoga
yogic adjective

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