yoga

noun

yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and sometimes meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote physical and emotional well-being
yogic adjective often capitalized

Examples of yoga in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The adults-only Carriage House has direct access to the Kohler Waters Spa and includes complimentary hydrotherapy and wellness amenities, as well as daily breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres and drinks, and yoga classes. Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2025 On Fridays patrons can enjoy light bites while a DJ plays a mix of Caribbean sounds; Saturdays they are treated to live music, and Sundays offer wellness with morning yoga, an afternoon drum class and evening jazz. Raisa Habersham, Miami Herald, 28 Oct. 2025 To this end, in addition to choreographies, Arps uses dumbbell, ankle and wrist weights as well as yoga blocks, straps and mats in her practice, depending on the different classes. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2025 Activities like low-impact cardio (jogging or walking), strength training (weight lifting or weight-bearing exercises) and practicing Tai Chi or yoga will help with flexibility and balance. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for yoga

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, literally, yoking, from yunakti he yokes; akin to Latin jungere to join — more at yoke

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of yoga was in 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Yoga.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yoga. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu philosophy teaching that by holding back the activity of one's body, mind, and will one can know one's true self and be free
2
: a system of exercises for gaining bodily or mental control and well-being

Medical Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote bodily or mental control and well-being see hatha yoga
yogic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on yoga

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