yoga

noun

yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
Yoga : 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 Yogic

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 city’s most popular beaches, Clifton and Camps Bay, are a short drive away for those prepared to brace the brisk Atlantic waters; yoga teachers can be brought in on demand. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Feb. 2026 Tangue Verde Ranch sits on 640 acres near the eastern district of the park and has an upscale dude ranch vibe with lots of equestrian activities, but also resort goodies like a pool, hot tub, and yoga classes (from $627 a night with all-inclusive packages available). Graham Averill, Outside, 23 Feb. 2026 Amenities like a spa, yoga studio, and culinary experiences highlighting colorful Caribbean cuisine lend a sense of refinement. Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 23 Feb. 2026 Brutocao Cellars anchors the Schoolhouse Plaza complex alongside a yoga studio and a body care shop. Audrey T. Williams, Mercury News, 23 Feb. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Yoga.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yoga. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

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

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