Japanese · Culture & Society
茶道
sadou
Tea ceremony
Advancednoun
Definition
A traditional Japanese ritual for preparing and presenting matcha tea, emphasizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
Example
茶道を習っています。美しい作法に感動します。
I am learning the tea ceremony. I am moved by the beautiful etiquette.
Etymology
'茶道' (sadou) means 'the way of tea,' with '茶' (cha, meaning 'tea') and '道' (dou, meaning 'way'). This practice emphasizes aesthetics, etiquette, and philosophy, developed in the Muromachi period.
How & Where It’s Used
'茶道' is used in formal settings and discussions about traditional Japanese culture, typically written in kanji and spoken in educational contexts.
Literary Heritage
Referenced extensively in classical literature, particularly poetry and philosophy regarding Zen.