prana
|pra/na|
C1
/ˈprɑːnə/
vital life force
Etymology
Etymology Information
'prana' originates from Sanskrit, specifically the word 'प्राण' (prāṇa), where 'pra-' meant 'before' and 'an' meant 'to breathe'.
Historical Evolution
'प्राण' (prāṇa) was adopted into English as 'prana' to describe the concept of life force in Hindu philosophy.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'breath' or 'life force', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
in Hindu philosophy, 'prana' refers to the vital life force or energy that permeates the universe and is present in all living beings.
Yoga practices often focus on controlling prana through breathwork.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42