What does the title “Buddha,” used for Siddhartha Gautama, literally mean?

The title “Buddha,” used for Siddhartha Gautama, literally means “Awakened One.”

The word comes from the Sanskrit root budh, meaning “to wake,” “to understand,” or “to be aware.” It describes someone who has awakened to the nature of reality and overcome ignorance. In Buddhist tradition, Gautama became a Buddha after attaining enlightenment beneath the Bodhi Tree.

“Buddha” is a title rather than a personal name. Siddhartha Gautama is the historical Buddha associated with ancient India, while Buddhist traditions also recognize other Buddhas. The title is therefore not equivalent to a family name or a deity’s proper name.

The related word “bodhi” means awakening or enlightenment. “Bodhisattva” refers to one pursuing Buddhahood, especially in Mahayana Buddhism, so it should not be confused with the title Buddha itself.