1. Plural of gymnosophy; the practices, doctrines, or philosophies of gymnosophists (ancient ascetic philosophers, especially in India, who practiced extreme simplicity and often went unclothed).
Usage: historical; often capitalized when referring to specific ancient schools; rare in modern usage

Examples

• The gymnosophies of ancient India emphasized renunciation and spiritual discipline.
• Greek historians documented the gymnosophies practiced by wandering ascetics.
• Various gymnosophies emerged across different regions and time periods.
• The study of gymnosophies reveals much about ancient philosophical traditions.
• These gymnosophies rejected material possessions in pursuit of enlightenment.