Taoism
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.
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.
Origin of Taoism
1Other words from Taoism
- Taoist, noun, adjective
- Tao·is·tic, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
How to use Taoism in a sentence
A visit to a Taoist temple was an interesting episode in an otherwise enjoyable excursion.
Recollections of Thirty-nine Years in the Army | Charles Alexander GordonA definite amount is required to be spent in hiring Buddhist or Taoist priests, or both, to read masses at the funeral.
Village Life in China | Arthur H. SmithApparently a Taoist, who pinned his faith to Lao Tz's newly enunciated doctrine of inaction.
The Sayings of Confucius | ConfuciusA Taoist priest had even come down from his temple to ask that the dog might be presented to it.
Intimate China | Mrs. Archibald Little"No, no; it is not a Taoist priest," said the young Buddhist, whose duty it was to be agreeable to visitors.
Intimate China | Mrs. Archibald Little
British Dictionary definitions for Taoism
/ (ˈtaʊɪzəm) /
the philosophy of Lao Zi that advocates a simple honest life and noninterference with the course of natural events
a popular Chinese system of religion and philosophy claiming to be teachings of Lao Zi but also incorporating pantheism and sorcery
Derived forms of Taoism
- Taoist, noun, adjective
- Taoistic, adjective
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Cultural definitions for Taoism
[ (dou-iz-uhm) ]
A religion native to China. Its adherents attempt to live according to the Tao — the “Way,” which they believe governs the universe.
The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
Browse