dharma
UK[ˈdɑːmə]US[ˈdɑːrmə]
n
(in hinduism, buddhism, and jainism) the eternal and inherent nature of reality, regarded in hinduism as a cosmic law underlying right behavior and social order.
n
(in hinduism) an individual's duty fulfilled by observance of custom or law.
n
(in buddhism) the teaching or doctrine of the buddha.
Etymology
the word 'dharma' is a direct borrowing from sanskrit 'dharma', meaning "that which is established, law, duty, right." it derives from the sanskrit root 'dhr-', meaning "to hold, maintain, support," which can be traced back to the proto-indo-european root 'dʰer-', with the same meaning of "to hold firmly, support." the conceptual journey is from the literal sense of holding or supporting the cosmic order to the abstract principles of universal law, righteousness, and duty. entering english in the late 18th century through scholarly engagement with indian religions, it retains its profound, untranslated significance as a key term in hinduism, buddhism, and jainism.
Analysis
this word is a direct loanword from sanskrit, where it functions as a core, indivisible concept. it is not productively segmented using english morphemes.
Examples
the central concept of his philosophy was living in accordance with dharma.
it is your dharma to care for your family and community.
the monk devoted his life to studying and teaching the dharma.