ashram

American  

[ahsh-ruhm] / ˈɑʃ rəm /

noun

1. a secluded building, often the residence of a guru, used for religious retreat or instruction in Hinduism.

2. the persons instructed there.

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ashram British  

/ ˈæʃrəm, ˈɑːʃ- /

noun

1. a religious retreat or community where a Hindu holy man lives

2. a house that provides accommodation for destitute people

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Etymology

Origin of ashram

First recorded in 1915–20, ashram is from the Sanskrit word āśrama

Explanation

An ashram is a place where people go on spiritual or religious retreats. Yoga teachers sometimes visit ashrams in India to learn more about the practice. For religious Hindus, an ashram is a place to meditate and be instructed in spiritual or artistic matters. Many Indian ashrams are located in remote places, and believers sometimes travel there on long pilgrimages. The Sanskrit root of ashram is srama, "giving the meaning of making an effort towards liberation," also "toll" or "fatigue."

Example Sentences

The two leaders will attend a traditional kite festival and visit the Sabarmati Ashram, the spiritual retreat where Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence struggle, lived for many years.

From Barron's • Jan. 11, 2026

Linoy Ashram, an 18-year-old rhythmic gymnast, is also considered a medal contender.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 16, 2024

Shai Ashram, 19, was one of the women on duty on 7 October.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2024

From the 1980s, when she founded the Sai Anantam Ashram in Southern California, to 2004, three years before her death, Alice Coltrane released nothing but religious and devotional music.

From New York Times • Sep. 7, 2022

The opposing page is entirely taken up by a colour photo of the swim­ming pool of the Aurobindo Ashram.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel