Taoism

[ dou-iz-uhm, tou- ]

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.

Origin of Taoism

1

Other 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.

  • A 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. Smith
  • Apparently a Taoist, who pinned his faith to Lao Tz's newly enunciated doctrine of inaction.

  • A 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

Taoism

/ (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

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

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.