Dalai Lama

C2 16+
Pronunciation Definitions Examples Grammatical Forms Origin and Evolution

Pronunciation: /ˈdɑːˌlaɪ ˈlɑːmə/

Definitions of Dalai Lama

noun A title given to the spiritual leaders of Tibetan Buddhism, believed to be manifestations of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.

Example Sentences

A1 The Dalai Lama is a spiritual leader.

A2 Many people admire the Dalai Lama for his teachings of compassion.

B1 The Dalai Lama advocates for peace and non-violence.

B2 During his exile, the Dalai Lama continued to promote Tibetan culture and autonomy.

C1 The Dalai Lama received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his efforts in resolving the Tibetan conflict.

C2 The Dalai Lama's teachings on mindfulness and inner peace have inspired millions around the world.

Examples of Dalai Lama in a Sentence

formal The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism.

informal I heard the Dalai Lama is visiting our city next week.

slang I can't believe I got a selfie with the Dalai Lama!

figurative His wisdom and compassion are often compared to that of the Dalai Lama.

Grammatical Forms of Dalai Lama

past tense

Dalai Lamaed

plural

Dalai Lamas

comparative

more Dalai Lama

superlative

most Dalai Lama

present tense

Dalai Lamas

future tense

will Dalai Lama

perfect tense

have Dalai Lamaed

continuous tense

is Dalai Lamaing

singular

Dalai Lama

positive degree

Dalai Lama

infinitive

to Dalai Lama

gerund

Dalai Lamaing

participle

Dalai Lamaed

Origin and Evolution of Dalai Lama

First Known Use: 1578 year
Language of Origin: Mongolian and Tibetan
Story behind the word: The title Dalai Lama is a combination of the Mongolian word 'Dalai' meaning 'ocean' and the Tibetan word 'Lama' meaning 'teacher'. It was first bestowed upon the third leader of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, Sonam Gyatso, by Altan Khan, the Mongol ruler, in the 16th century.
Evolution of the word: Originally used as a title for the spiritual leader of Tibet, the term Dalai Lama has become synonymous with the leader of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and is recognized worldwide as a symbol of peace and compassion.