yin yang
/ˌjɪn ˈjæŋ/
Chinese Origin
Philosophy
Original Word
阴阳
Mandarin (yīn yáng)
Entered English
20th century
First recorded usage in English
The Story Behind "yin yang"
From Mandarin 'yīn yáng' (阴阳), the concept of dualism in Chinese philosophy describing how opposite forces are interconnected and interdependent. Adopted into English New Age vocabulary in the 20th century.
Example Usage
"The design represents the balance of yin and yang."