yoga

noun

yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and sometimes meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote physical and emotional well-being
yogic adjective often capitalized

Examples of yoga in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their spring collection features fresh pastels and breathable fabrics, perfect for yoga, Pilates, or just lounging in style. Julie Loffredi, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 Mustique Fast Facts Number of villas: 80+ Number of hotels: One Activities: Snorkeling, diving, tennis, soccer, cricket, horseback riding, yoga, game nights, a full-service gym and spa, and more. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 27 Feb. 2025 That scent has lasted through medium-intensity yoga (though not a long run) and most of a workday. Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 25 Feb. 2025 Another option: Try a relaxation technique such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. Julia Ries, SELF, 24 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for yoga

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, literally, yoking, from yunakti he yokes; akin to Latin jungere to join — more at yoke

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of yoga was in 1785

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Yoga.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yoga. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu philosophy teaching that by holding back the activity of one's body, mind, and will one can know one's true self and be free
2
: a system of exercises for gaining bodily or mental control and well-being

Medical Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote bodily or mental control and well-being see hatha yoga
yogic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on yoga

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