oneness
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɒnnəs/
US
- /ˈwənəs/
- /ˈwənnəs/
Description
- unity
- wholeness
- interconnectedness
It's not just about things being together; it's about feeling deeply connected, as if they are part of one whole. Think of a symphony orchestra: many instruments playing different notes, but creating one unified sound. Or think of the ocean: countless drops of water, yet seen as one vast body. The word often suggests a deep connection and a shared nature. It is often used in spiritual or philosophical contexts to describe a feeling of unity with everything around us. You might feel this kind of connection while meditating, walking in nature, or experiencing deep love.
The word "oneness" describes the state of being united as if forming a single entity. It goes beyond simple togetherness; it implies an inherent interconnectedness and lack of separation. While we often perceive the world as fragmented – individual people, objects, ideas – oneness suggests that beneath this surface lies a fundamental unity.
Historically, the concept of oneness is deeply rooted in many spiritual traditions, particularly Eastern philosophies like Hinduism and Buddhism, where it represents the ultimate reality beyond duality. In these contexts, achieving "oneness" with the universe or a higher power is often seen as the goal of enlightenment.
However, "oneness" isn't limited to religious thought. It can also describe a powerful feeling of connection in everyday life. A family experiencing deep love and support might feel a sense of oneness. A team working seamlessly towards a common goal shares a similar experience. Even an artist lost in the creative process may describe feeling "at one" with their work.
Figuratively, we use "oneness" to emphasize harmony or agreement. For example: "Despite their differences, they found a surprising sense of unity on the issue."
So whether you're exploring spiritual truths, experiencing deep connection, or simply recognizing shared humanity, "oneness" points to the underlying unity that binds all things together: a state where separation dissolves and everything becomes whole.
Examples
- 1
Team unity
After weeks of working together, the team began to feel a real sense of oneness.
- 2
Nature connection
Many people go hiking to experience oneness with nature.
Pattern
oneness with + person/place/thing
a feeling of deep connection to it
- 3
Community
The ceremony emphasized the oneness of the community, despite its many different backgrounds.
- 4
Meditation
In meditation, she sometimes felt a quiet oneness with everything around her.
- 5
National unity
The speech called for national oneness, but some listeners thought it ignored real disagreements.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- onenessnoun