mandala

noun

man·​da·​la ˈmən-də-lə How to pronounce mandala (audio)
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 How to pronounce mandala (audio)
adjective

Examples of mandala 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.
Other culturally fluent moments appear in small details, like the mandala bowls in the bathroom. — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 29 July 2026 The workshop focuses on creating a mandala design inspired by the surrounding cloud forest. — Emese MacZko, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 Last weekend, after seeing the work of land artist Mayumi Nakabayashi, I was inspired to make a nature mandala in my backyard from garden clippings that my husband had put in a pile. — Jancee Dunn, New York Times, 25 June 2026 Four designs are available, including this pale blue mandala option. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for mandala

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit maṇḍala circle

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mandala was in 1859

Browse Nearby Words

Mandaic
mandala
Mandalay
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mandala.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mandala. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on mandala

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mandala

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