First Known Use: 1855
Dictionary
Mahayana
noun Ma·ha·ya·na \ˌmä-hə-ˈyä-nə\
Definition of MAHAYANA
: a liberal and theistic branch of Buddhism comprising sects chiefly in China and Japan, recognizing a large body of scripture in addition to the Pali canon, and teaching social concern and universal salvation — compare theravada
— Ma·ha·ya·nist \-ˈyä-nist\ noun or adjective
— Ma·ha·ya·nis·tic \-yä-ˈnis-tik\ adjective
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Origin of MAHAYANA
Sanskrit mahāyāna, literally, great vehicle
Rhymes with MAHAYANA
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