joss
1 Americannoun
noun
noun
Etymology
Origin of joss1
1705–15; < Chinese Pidgin English < Portuguese deos < Latin deus god
Origin of joss2
First recorded in 1855–60; origin uncertain
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The practice echoes the burning of incense in Buddhist rituals, though pine's sharp natural scent makes it stand out from the aromatic powders used in joss sticks.
From Barron's ● Nov. 2, 2026
Same for the fruit to set at my grandpa and grandma’s altar, as well as the joss paper to burn for their good fortune.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 20, 2024
"There are just too many temples in Taiwan," said Chen's daughter, Chen Miao-fang, explaining why demand for joss paper remains high.
From Reuters ● Jan. 26, 2022
During the boat-burning ceremony, attendees must not turn away, step on the joss paper or make loud noises for fear of inviting bad spirits.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 10, 2021
Elsie pulls out some joss paper from her pouch.
From "Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston
Random Word
Spin the wheel and learn a new word!
Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
