# lotus

/ˈɫoʊtəs/ (US) · /lˈəʊtəs/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. the water plant

noun · CEFR B2

a tropical water plant with large, beautiful flowers that grow above the surface of the water.

For teachers: any of several aquatic plants, particularly of the genus Nelumbo, characterized by large, fragrant flowers and leaves that rise above the water surface.

- The pink lotus flowers opened in the morning sun on the quiet pond.
- In many Asian cultures, the lotus represents purity because it emerges clean and beautiful from the muddy depths of a lake.

### 2. yoga position

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a sitting position in yoga where you cross your legs and rest your feet on your thighs.

For teachers: a cross-legged sitting posture in which each foot is placed on the opposite thigh, commonly used for meditation.

- She sat in lotus for ten minutes to clear her mind before starting work.
- The instructor advised the students to master the half-lotus before attempting the full posture to avoid straining their knee ligaments.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'the lotus position'.

### 3. mythological plant

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary

a legendary plant from ancient Greek stories that made people forget their homes and feel very sleepy and happy.

For teachers: a plant described in Greek mythology, particularly the Odyssey, whose fruit induced a state of dreamy forgetfulness and contentment.

- In the old story, the sailors ate the lotus and never wanted to leave the island.
- The poem explores the theme of the 'lotus-eaters', representing those who choose a life of idle pleasure over their duties and responsibilities.

## Examples

- The pink lotus flower floated peacefully on the pond.
- During the festival, thousands of people gather to watch the lotus blossoms open at dawn.
- In many artistic traditions, the lotus is depicted as emerging from muddy waters to bloom in pristine beauty, serving as a metaphor for spiritual transcendence.

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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.