# mandala

/ˈmɑdəɫə/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mandala
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a circle or pattern that represents the universe in some religions. People often draw them to help them relax or focus their minds.

For teachers: a symbolic representation of the universe, typically in the form of a geometric pattern or a circular diagram. Often used in meditation or as a spiritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism.

## Examples

- She spent the afternoon coloring a beautiful mandala.
- The artist spent weeks creating a complex mandala using traditional pigments and intricate geometric shapes.
- In many Eastern traditions, the mandala serves as a visual aid for meditation, helping practitioners achieve a state of inner balance and spiritual clarity through its symmetrical design.

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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.