satori
UK[səˈtɔːri]US[sɑːˈtɔːri]
n
a sudden, intuitive enlightenment or awakening, especially in zen buddhism.
Etymology
the word 'satori' is a direct borrowing from japanese, where it is written 悟り. it is the noun form of the verb 'satoru', meaning 'to know' or 'to understand'. the term entered english in the early 20th century through the writings of scholars and practitioners introducing zen buddhism to the west. it encapsulates a core zen concept of a direct, non-intellectual insight into the nature of existence, distinct from gradual, knowledge-based learning.
Analysis
this is a direct loanword from japanese. it is not productively formed from smaller morphemes within the english spelling system.
Examples
after years of meditation, he experienced a profound satori that changed his entire perspective.
the koan is designed to provoke a moment of satori, bypassing logical thought.
her description of the event was less about religious ecstasy and more like a quiet, personal satori.