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Definition of arhat

arhat

/ˈɑːr.hət/
ar · hat

Plural:arhats
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arhat Lexical Profile

arhat Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

In Buddhism, particularly within Theravada traditions, a perfected person who has overcome all defilements, attained spiritual enlightenment, and achieved nirvana.

Example

"After years of rigorous ascetic practice and profound meditation, the monk was revered by his followers as a living arhat."

Word Nuance & Usage

In Buddhist theology, an arhat is often conceptually distinguished from a 'bodhisattva'; an arhat focuses on achieving personal enlightenment and nirvana, whereas a bodhisattva vows to delay ultimate liberation to help all sentient beings attain it.

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Sanskrit 'arhat', meaning 'worthy' or 'deserving', representing the present participle of the root 'arh-' (to deserve, to be worthy).

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Arhat. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/arhat
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