mudra

noun

mu·​dra mə-ˈdrä How to pronounce mudra (audio)
: one of the symbolic hand gestures used in religious ceremonies and dances of India and in yoga

Examples of mudra in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Sit up straight and put your hands in front of you in a meditation mudra: palms up, left hand on the bottom, right hand on the top with the two thumbs touching. Ada Tseng, Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2023 With your hands in this mudra, close your eyes. Stephanie Mansour, CNN, 2 Sep. 2020 This mudra is known to improve concentration and creativity. Stephanie Mansour, CNN, 2 Sep. 2020 On each platform sits a Buddha in the classic Bhumisparsha mudra position. Joshua Hammer, Smithsonian, 21 Nov. 2019 Its open palm faces outward in the abhaya (have no fear) mudra, a Buddhist hand gesture to evoke reassurance. Alexandra Marvar, Washington Post, 15 Nov. 2019 Namaste is a greeting that includes a gesture, called anjali mudra or pranamasana, which has roots that stem from Hinduism. Adria Hyde, chicagotribune.com, 23 Sep. 2019 Layavinyasa School of Dance and Music, led by Sarada Nori Akella, will demonstrate Kuchipudi dance, including the hand gestures, or mudras, rhythmic patterns, and facial expressions used in this dance form. courant.com, 21 Aug. 2019

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit mudrā

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mudra was in 1811

Dictionary Entries Near mudra

Cite this Entry

“Mudra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mudra. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

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