yantra

Where does the word "yantra" come from? It comes from Sanskrit yantra, and was adopted directly into English (19th-20th c.).

Yantra’s story begins in Sanskrit: yantra meant “an instrument, device, or mechanical contrivance.” From a root meaning 'to restrain, support', denoting an instrument or device. It reached English by 19th-20th c. as yantra. Adopted in English writing on Hindu and tantric ritual for a mystical geometric diagram. Today, yantra means a geometric diagram used in Hindu and tantric traditions as a tool for meditation and worship.

1. Stage 1 · Sanskrit · ancient yantra "an instrument, device, or mechanical contrivance", from a root meaning 'to restrain, support', denoting an instrument or device.
2. Stage 2 · English · 19th-20th c. yantra "a geometric diagram used as a focus for meditation and worship", adopted in English writing on Hindu and tantric ritual for a mystical geometric diagram.