# mahatma

/məˈhɑtmə/ (US) · /mˈæhætmɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mahatma
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a title given to a person who is very wise, holy, and respected. It is most famous as the name people used for the Indian leader Mohandas Gandhi.

For teachers: a person regarded with deep reverence for their wisdom and holiness. Derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'great soul', and primarily used as an honorific for spiritual or political leaders in South Asia.

## Examples

- The people called him a mahatma because of his peaceful life.
- The spiritual leader was honored as a mahatma for his lifelong commitment to non-violence and social justice.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a title before a name, in which case it is capitalized.

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