Synonyms for

Zen

Verb / zen / Another word for zen — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and intuition.

Synonyms & similar words

Synonyms by register

Antonyms

Common collocations

  • zen garden
  • zen state
  • zen moment
  • zen practice
  • zen meditation
  • zen attitude
  • zen Buddhism

Word family

noun zen
adjective zen

Usage note

Primarily used as a noun referring to a school of Mahayana Buddhism or a state of calm awareness. Can also be used informally as an adjective to describe a state of peacefulness.

Example sentences

  1. I try to practice Zen meditation every day.
  2. Zen helps me to be calm and focused.
  3. I feel more peaceful after practicing Zen meditation.
  4. Zen teaches us to live in the present moment.
  5. I find Zen to be a helpful way to deal with stress.

Quotes

  • “Zen does not confuse spirituality with thinking about God while one is peeling potatoes. Zen spirituality is just to peel the potatoes.” - Alan Watts
  • “The only Zen you find on tops of mountains is the Zen you bring up there.” - Robert M. Pirsig
  • “Zen is not some kind of excitement, but concentration on our usual everyday routine.” - Shunryu Suzuki

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