pagoda

noun

pa·​go·​da pə-ˈgō-də How to pronounce pagoda (audio)
Synonyms of pagodanext
: a tower in eastern Asia usually with roofs curving upward at the division of each of several stories and erected as a temple or memorial

Illustration of pagoda

Illustration of pagoda

Examples of pagoda in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Nearby, a stone pagoda bears a tall, striking pillar which has four Buddha faces — one per cardinal direction. — Lilit Marcus, CNN Money, 27 Nov. 2025 The National Museum of Korea is a short walk from my home, set among bamboo groves and pagodas. — Anthony Kuhn, NPR, 11 June 2026 There are scenic halls, pagodas and pavilions; gardens of immaculate topiary; and tranquil water features, including ponds with koi carp. — Vicky Smith, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026 Built in 541, its highlights include the white gemstone statues of Amitabha Buddha and the enormous incense burners in the pagoda’s red-roofed Upper House. — Tamara Hinson, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pagoda

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese pagode statue of a deity, Hindu or Buddhist temple

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pagoda was in 1582

Rhymes for pagoda

See All Rhymes for pagoda

Browse Nearby Words

pagod
pagoda
pagoda dogwood
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Cite this Entry

“Pagoda.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pagoda. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pagoda

noun
pa·​go·​da pə-ˈgōd-ə How to pronounce pagoda (audio)
: a tower in eastern Asia of several stories erected as a temple or memorial

More from Merriam-Webster on pagoda

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for pagoda

Nglish: Translation of pagoda for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pagoda

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