daruma

[ duh-roo-muh; Japanese dah-roo-mah ]

noun

1. a large red papier-mâché Japanese doll in the form of a seated potbellied Buddhist monk: considered a bringer of luck and prosperity.

Word History and Origins

Origin of daruma¹

1960–65; < Japanese < Chinese, transliteration of Sanskrit dharma dharma

Example Sentences

It is easy to make this, for it is believed that Daruma lost his legs from sitting too long in one position.

From Project Gutenberg

Not an Irish gentleman with a pipe in his mouth, such as you like to build, but a figure of Daruma, who was a disciple of Buddha.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus certain legless and shapeless dolls are called after him, and snow-figures are denominated Yuki-daruma (Snow Daruma).

From Project Gutenberg

The images of Daruma are found by the hundreds in toy-shops, as tobacconists' signs, and as the snow-men of the boys.

From Project Gutenberg

Nevertheless, the conscience of the Wa Daruma bids them kill their twin offspring.

From Project Gutenberg