# Buddha

/ˈbudə/ (US) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/buddha
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a person who has reached a state of perfect peace and wisdom. It usually refers to the historical teacher who started Buddhism, but it can also mean anyone who has reached enlightenment.

For teachers: a title given to the founder of Buddhism, Siddhartha Gautama, or to any individual who has achieved a state of perfect spiritual enlightenment. When referring to the historical figure, it is treated as a proper name and capitalised.

## Examples

- The statue of the Buddha sat peacefully in the garden.
- Many people visit the temple to meditate in front of the golden Buddha and find inner peace.
- While the historical Buddha taught in ancient India, the philosophical concept of a buddha suggests that any sentient being possesses the inherent potential to awaken and transcend the cycle of suffering.

## Usage notes

- Capitalised when referring to the historical figure Siddhartha Gautama; lowercase when referring to the general concept of an enlightened being.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.