transcendental meditation: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Semi-technical, spiritual/wellness, formal
Quick answer
What does “transcendental meditation” mean?
A specific form of silent mantra meditation derived from ancient Vedic traditions, introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, practiced for 15–20 minutes twice daily while sitting with eyes closed.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A specific form of silent mantra meditation derived from ancient Vedic traditions, introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, practiced for 15–20 minutes twice daily while sitting with eyes closed.
A trademarked technique for promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and developing consciousness, which involves the use of a personally assigned mantra without concentration or contemplation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The term is used identically as a proper noun.
Connotations
Similar connotations in both varieties: associated with alternative wellness, stress reduction, and sometimes with the 1960s counterculture due to celebrity practitioners.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both regions, appearing in wellness, lifestyle, and spiritual contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “transcendental meditation” in a Sentence
[Subject] practises/learns/teaches transcendental meditationtranscendental meditation for [purpose (e.g., stress relief)]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transcendental meditation” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She has been practising transcendental meditation for over a decade.
- He intends to learn to meditate transcendentally through the official course.
American English
- She has been practicing transcendental meditation for over a decade.
- He wants to learn how to meditate using the transcendental technique.
adverb
British English
- He meditates transcendentally every morning without fail.
American English
- She practices meditation transcendentally, following the specific TM protocol.
adjective
British English
- The transcendental meditation session left her feeling remarkably refreshed.
- He follows the transcendental meditation programme religiously.
American English
- The transcendental meditation technique is taught in a standardised way.
- She appreciated the transcendental meditation teacher's guidance.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; may appear in corporate wellness programme descriptions.
Academic
Used in psychology, religious studies, or health sciences research on meditation and its effects.
Everyday
Used in discussions about wellness, stress management, or personal spirituality.
Technical
Used precisely in contexts of comparative meditation studies or trademarked wellness techniques.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “transcendental meditation”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “transcendental meditation”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transcendental meditation”
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'I did a transcendental meditation' – prefer 'a session of transcendental meditation').
- Using it as a generic term for any deep meditation (it is a specific, trademarked technique).
- Misspelling as 'transcend**a**ntal'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, according to its proponents, authentic transcendental meditation must be taught by a certified instructor in a standardised course.
No, it is presented as a technique for relaxation and development of consciousness, not a religion or philosophy, though it has roots in Vedic tradition.
TM is characterised by the use of a specific, personalised mantra and the absence of concentration, contemplation, or mindful observation of thoughts.
To maintain control over the quality and standardisation of instruction, ensuring the technique is taught consistently worldwide by authorised teachers.
A specific form of silent mantra meditation derived from ancient Vedic traditions, introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, practiced for 15–20 minutes twice daily while sitting with eyes closed.
Transcendental meditation is usually semi-technical, spiritual/wellness, formal in register.
Transcendental meditation: in British English it is pronounced /ˌtræn.senˌden.təl ˌmed.ɪˈteɪ.ʃən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌtræn.senˌden.t̬əl ˌmed.əˈteɪ.ʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this term”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'TRANScendental Meditation takes you BEYOND (transcends) normal thought to a state of deep rest.'
Conceptual Metaphor
THE MIND IS A LAKE (meditation settles the ripples of thought to reveal a calm, clear depth).
Practice
Quiz
What is a key distinguishing feature of transcendental meditation?