n. 1. often Nirvana a. Buddhism A state in which the mind, enlightened as to the illusory nature of the self, transcends all suffering and attains peace. b. Hinduism A state in which the soul, having relinquished individual attachments and recognized its identity with Brahman, escapes samsara. 2. An ideal condition of rest, harmony, stability, or joy. [Sanskrit nirvāṇam, a blowing out, extinction, nirvana : nis-, nir-, out, away + vāti, it blows; see wē- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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