# Shen

/ˈʃɛn/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a spirit or god in Chinese culture. It can refer to a person's soul or a divine being in the universe.

For teachers: a spirit, god, or divine power in Chinese philosophy and religion. Refers to both the internal human spirit and external celestial beings.

## Examples

- The temple was built to honor the local shen.
- In traditional Chinese medicine, maintaining the balance of shen is considered essential for mental clarity and emotional health.
- The philosopher argued that the shen represents the most refined aspect of human existence, connecting the individual to the vast, numinous forces of the cosmos.

## Usage notes

- Often used as an uncountable concept in philosophy; functions as a countable noun when referring to specific deities.

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