theravadin: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2formal, academic, religious
Quick answer
What does “theravadin” mean?
A follower of Theravada Buddhism, the oldest surviving school of Buddhism, prevalent in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A follower of Theravada Buddhism, the oldest surviving school of Buddhism, prevalent in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
Pertaining to or characteristic of Theravada Buddhism, its doctrines, practices, or monastic community.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning. Spelling and usage are identical across variants.
Connotations
Academic or religious contexts; carries no regional linguistic connotations.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general discourse, slightly higher in comparative religion, theology, or Asian studies contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “theravadin” in a Sentence
[Adherent] theravadin[Adjective] theravadin [noun]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “theravadin” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The theravadin monastic code is strictly observed.
American English
- Theravadin meditation techniques were taught at the retreat.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
The theravadin canon, known as the Pali Canon, is a primary source for scholars.
Everyday
Rarely used outside specific discussions about Buddhism.
Technical
Refers precisely to adherents of the Theravada vinaya and commentarial tradition.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “theravadin”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “theravadin”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “theravadin”
- Misspelling as 'theravadan' or 'theravedin'.
- Using lowercase incorrectly when referring to a person.
- Confusing with 'Theran' or 'Theron'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Theravada' is the school or tradition. 'Theravadin' is the noun for an adherent or the adjective meaning 'of or relating to Theravada'.
The standard pronunciation is /ˌθer.əˈvɑː.dɪn/ (ther-uh-VAH-din), with the primary stress on the third syllable.
Yes, e.g., 'theravadin monastery', 'theravadin texts'. It is more common as an adjective than as a noun in general academic writing.
Primarily in academic texts on Buddhism, comparative religion, anthropology of Southeast Asia, or in discussions among Buddhists about different traditions.
A follower of Theravada Buddhism, the oldest surviving school of Buddhism, prevalent in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
Theravadin is usually formal, academic, religious in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'THERE is a VADin' – there, where the oldest Buddhist school (Theravada) is followed.
Conceptual Metaphor
A LIVING TRADITION (theravadin practices are a living link to the earliest Buddhism).
Practice
Quiz
What is a defining characteristic of a theravadin?