Taoism

American  

[dou-iz-uhm, tou-] / ˈdaʊ ɪz əm, ˈtaʊ- /

noun

1. the philosophical system evolved by Lao-tzu and Chuang-tzu, advocating a life of complete simplicity and naturalness and of noninterference with the course of natural events, in order to attain a happy existence in harmony with the Tao.

2. Also called Hsüan Chiao.  a popular Chinese religion, originating in the doctrines of Lao-tzu but later highly eclectic in nature and characterized by a pantheon of many gods and by the practice of alchemy, divination, and magic.

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Taoism British  

/ ˈtaʊɪzəm /

noun

1. the philosophy of Lao Zi that advocates a simple honest life and noninterference with the course of natural events

2. a popular Chinese system of religion and philosophy claiming to be teachings of Lao Zi but also incorporating pantheism and sorcery

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Taoism Cultural  

1. A religion native to China. Its adherents attempt to live according to the Tao — the “Way,” which they believe governs the universe.

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Other Word Forms

• Taoist noun
• Taoistic adjective

Etymology

Origin of Taoism

Tao + -ism

Example Sentences

Similar acts also exist in Taoism and Buddhism practiced in India, both of which also influenced the historical development of Shugendo.

From National Geographic • Jan. 19, 2024

Temples are key civic spaces in Taiwan, with two-thirds of the population following folk religions, Buddhism and Taoism.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2023

And Taoism teaches that happiness comes from placing your will in harmony with life’s larger pattern.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 1, 2023

At the Wong Tai Sen Taoism Center in Monterey Park, red lanterns dangle from every corner of the ceiling bearing slips of paper with wishes for prosperity, love and peace.

From Washington Post • Jan. 26, 2023

Frank remembered Iris, the rainbow goddess, who’d been dabbling in Buddhism and Taoism.

From "The Son of Neptune" by Rick Riordan