Confucian

[ kuhn-fyoo-shuhn ]

noun

1. an adherent of the teachings of Confucius.
2. Also called Ju. a member of the school of philosophers, founded by Confucius, who codified in their teachings the traditional Chinese principles of ethics, morals, and politics.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or resembling the teachings of Confucius.

Confucian

/ kənˈfjuːʃən /

adjective

1. of or relating to the doctrines of Confucius

noun

1. a follower of Confucius

Other Words From

• an·ti-Con·fu·cian noun adjective
• post-Con·fu·cian noun adjective
• pro-Con·fu·cian noun adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of Confucian¹

First recorded in 1830–40; Confuci(us) + -an

Example Sentences

“Turandot” is a riddle opera of Confucian confusion for which Puccini hadn’t found a solution.

From Los Angeles Times

During major holidays, they perform Confucian family rituals, placing rice, fruit and dried fish on an altar and bowing toward their ancestors’ graves in the North.

From New York Times

Like many court ceremonies, the Confucian ritual that has been performed for centuries at the royal Jongmyo shrine in Korea, is meticulous and measured, stately and restrained.

From New York Times

Though Mr. Xi has not explicitly spoken about gay rights, he has emphasized Confucian values of order and obedience, in which citizens conform to traditional gender roles.

From New York Times

Their question is whether it is better to be a Confucian leader – or just look like one.

From Washington Times