Part of Speech

Adjective, Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbʊdɪst/

Definitions

• Adjective: Relating to or characteristic of Buddhism, its teachings, or its followers.
• Noun: A person who follows or practices Buddhism.

Usage Examples

• Many Buddhist temples in Thailand are open to visitors from around the world.
• The Buddhist monk spent his life in pursuit of enlightenment.

Etymology

The word 'Buddhist' comes from 'Buddha,' which means 'awakened one' in Sanskrit, with the suffix '-ist' indicating a follower or practitioner. It was first used in the 19th century to refer to the followers of the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha).

Synonyms

• Follower of Buddhism
• Buddhistic

Antonyms

• Atheist
• Materialist

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English: /ˈbʊdɪst/
• In American English: /ˈbʊdɪst/
• In South Asian English: /ˈbʊdɪst/

Historical Usage

The term 'Buddhist' was first coined in the 19th century as the practice and study of Buddhism began to spread beyond its origins in South Asia. The term is used to describe anyone who follows the teachings of the Buddha, which became especially significant in the Western world after the rise of global interest in Eastern religions during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Cultural Nuances

Buddhism and being a Buddhist can vary widely depending on the region. In countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, Buddhist practices are closely tied to national identity, and many cultural traditions, festivals, and rituals are based on Buddhist teachings. In other parts of the world, being a Buddhist might be more of a philosophical pursuit or spiritual practice rather than part of the national culture.

More Information

A Buddhist is anyone who practices Buddhism, a major world religion and philosophy founded on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) around the 5th to 6th century BCE in ancient India. The core tenets of Buddhism include the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the concept of Nirvana. Buddhists seek enlightenment (or Nirvana) by practicing meditation, mindfulness, ethical conduct, and wisdom. Buddhism has multiple schools, including Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, which interpret the teachings of the Buddha in different ways. Buddhist traditions and practices have influenced various aspects of art, culture, and philosophy around the world, particularly in Asia, where it is a predominant religion.