WordGarden.ionirvana
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /nɜːvˈɑːnə/
US
- /nərˈvɑnə/
Meanings
Noun
a state of perfect happiness, peace, or bliss
liberation from suffering and rebirth in Buddhism or Hinduism
Proper-noun
the American grunge rock band
Beyond the definition
Nirvana originally described the highest state in Buddhism: freedom from suffering, desire, and rebirth. Today, it's also used more broadly for a state of perfect peace, deep happiness, or complete calm. You might say a relaxing vacation brought you closer to nirvana, or that listening to your favorite song puts you in a state of nirvana.
The term comes from Sanskrit and Pali and means "to extinguish," referring to the ending of desire and suffering. While rooted in religion, it's now often used outside Buddhism to describe intense joy or a sense that everything feels completely right. Think of that moment when everything just feels right: that's close to nirvana.
Nirvana is a concept most strongly associated with Buddhism, where it refers to the ultimate state of liberation, peace, and enlightenment. Traditionally, it means the end of suffering, desire, and the cycle of rebirth, a state beyond ordinary worldly existence. Reaching nirvana isn't simply about feeling good; it's about deep spiritual freedom and release from attachment.
Historically, Buddhist monks dedicated their lives to practices like meditation and mindfulness in pursuit of this state. The path to nirvana involves overcoming harmful states of mind, growing in wisdom, and letting go of attachment. It's a deep spiritual idea, not just a pleasant feeling.
However, over time, "nirvana" has entered common usage beyond its religious origins. Today, it's often used metaphorically to describe any experience that brings intense joy, perfect peace, or complete satisfaction. You might say a perfectly brewed cup of coffee is "nirvana in a mug," or that sinking into a hot bath after a long day feels like "pure nirvana."
It can also be used ironically or humorously to exaggerate pleasure. For example: "Finding a parking spot downtown was total nirvana!" While modern usage often lacks the profound spiritual weight of its original meaning, it still evokes a sense of blissful contentment and escape from everyday troubles. So, whether you're seeking enlightenment or simply enjoying a moment of perfect peace, "nirvana" represents that ultimate state of happiness and tranquility.
Examples
- 1
Spiritual goal
After years of meditation, the monk hoped to reach nirvana.
- 2
Food lovers
For chocolate lovers, that tiny dessert shop is nirvana.
- 3
Personal peace
She found a kind of nirvana in swimming before sunrise.
- 4
Commuting
The new noise-canceling headphones are commuter nirvana.
- Phrasecommuter nirvana
something almost perfect for people who travel to work
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Unrealistic goal
The company kept chasing software nirvana, but users just wanted a simple app that worked.
- Phrasechase nirvana
try to reach a perfect state, often unrealistically
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- suffering
- samsara
Used with (collocations)
- attain nirvana
- reach nirvana
- pure nirvana
Explore
- moksha
- liberation
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- nirvananoun