zen Definition
- 1a Japanese school of Mahayana Buddhism emphasizing the value of meditation and intuition rather than ritual worship or study of scriptures
- 2a state of calm attentiveness in which one's actions are guided by intuition rather than by conscious effort
Using zen: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "zen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He practices Zen meditation every morning.
Example
The garden was designed to create a sense of Zen.
Example
She approached her work with a Zen-like focus and concentration.
zen Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for zen
Antonyms for zen
Phrases with zen
a teacher or practitioner of Zen Buddhism who has achieved a high level of spiritual insight and enlightenment
Example
The Zen master led the meditation session.
a traditional Japanese garden that is designed to promote feelings of peace and tranquility through the use of rocks, sand, and carefully placed plants
Example
The Zen garden was a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city.
a paradoxical or nonsensical question or statement used in Zen Buddhism to challenge the student's thinking and promote enlightenment
Example
The Zen master posed a difficult koan to his students.
Origins of zen
from Japanese 'zen', from Chinese 'chán', from Sanskrit 'dhyāna', meaning 'meditation'
Summary: zen in Brief
The term 'zen' [zen] refers to a Japanese school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and intuition over ritual worship or scripture study. It also denotes a state of calm attentiveness guided by intuition rather than conscious effort. Examples include 'He practices Zen meditation every morning,' and 'She approached her work with a Zen-like focus and concentration.' Phrases like 'Zen master' and 'Zen garden' are common, while idioms are rare. 'Zen' is formal and synonymous with 'meditation' and 'mindfulness.'
