(Hinduism and Buddhism) the beatitude that transcends the cycle of reincarnation; characterized by the extinction of desire and suffering and individual consciousness
"After years of meditation, she sought nirvana to escape the endless cycle of rebirth driven by her desires."
any place of complete bliss and delight and peace
"After years of wandering, he finally found his nirvana in a quiet cabin surrounded by towering pine trees."
Complete cessation of suffering; a blissful state attained through realization of sunyata; enlightened experience.
"After years of meditation, she finally achieved nirvana, experiencing complete cessation of all suffering."
In plain English: Nirvana is a state of perfect peace and happiness where all suffering ends.
"After years of working long hours, finally retiring felt like nirvana for him."
Usage: In everyday conversation, nirvana refers to an idealized state of perfect peace or ultimate happiness rather than its specific religious definition as the end of rebirth and suffering. Use this word when describing a metaphorical escape from stress or a moment of profound contentment instead of synonyms like bliss or serenity.
The word nirvana comes from Sanskrit, where it originally meant "blown out" or "extinguished." It entered English to describe a state of spiritual liberation that is free from suffering and rebirth.