chakra
UK[ˈtʃʌk.rə]US[ˈtʃɑː.krə]
n
(in yoga and other indian traditions) one of the centers of spiritual power in the human body, usually considered to be seven in number.
Etymology
the word 'chakra' entered english in the late 19th century, borrowed directly from sanskrit 'cakra', which means "wheel," "circle," or "disc." in hindu and yogic philosophy, the term metaphorically describes the wheel-like vortices of vital energy believed to reside in the subtle body. this concept was later adopted and popularized in western new age and wellness contexts. the sanskrit term itself derives from the proto-indo-european root kʷekʷlo-, meaning "to turn" or "wheel," which is also the ancestor of words like "wheel" and "cycle" in english via other linguistic paths.
Analysis
the word 'chakra' is a direct loanword from sanskrit, meaning "wheel" or "circle." it functions as a simplex noun in english.
Examples
the yoga instructor guided the class to focus on opening their heart chakra.
many meditation practices aim to balance the body's seven primary chakras.
the concept of the third eye is associated with the brow chakra.