mandala

noun

man·​da·​la ˈmən-də-lə 

1

: a Hindu or Buddhist graphic symbol of the universe

specifically : a circle enclosing a square with a deity on each side that is used chiefly as an aid to meditation

2

: a graphic and often symbolic pattern usually in the form of a circle divided into four separate sections or bearing a multiple projection of an image

mandalic

ˌmən-ˈda-lik 

adjective

Examples of mandala in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Interactive light sculpture: Speak a single-word vision of the future and watch as technology translates it into a pattern of light and color that shimmers across the structure, like a mandala, unique to each visitor. —Phoebe Wall Howard, Detroit Free Press, 7 June 2024

While in Encinitas, the monks will construct a labor-intensive sand mandala at the Seaside Center of Spiritual Living, 1613 Lake Drive. —Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Nov. 2023

Craft a mandala Send the kids outside to collect an assortment of items, including leaves, flowers, and stones. —Michelle Crouch, Parents, 14 Nov. 2023

The public is welcome to view the monks work on the mandala and ask questions. —Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Nov. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit maṇḍala circle

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1