mudra — English Dictionary

Noun

1. Any of several formal symbolic hand postures used in classical dance of India and in Hindu and Buddhist iconography.

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   The king of creation would not have curved his palm into the likeness of a Hindu mudra in an attempt to protect the tiny launching pad on his thumbnail from the dank wind.

   For the next few minutes, the audience had sat mesmerized as the sisters performed, fingertips joining and parting in mudras, eyebrows quivering.

2. Any of the formal body positions and postures used in yoga and meditation.

   Usage

   • Hinduism

   Examples

   The Kechari Mudra is accomplished by thrusting the tongue into the gullet, by turning it over itself, and keeping the eyesight in the middle.

Noun

1. ritual hand movement in religion or religious dancing, particularly in Hinduism or Buddhism

   Broader terms

   gesture