1. Plural of pneuma; spiritual or divine forces, especially in Christian theology and ancient philosophy.
Usage: theological; philosophical; formal
2. In ancient Greek philosophy, vital breath or life force; the animating principle of living beings.
Usage: historical; philosophical

Examples

• Early Christian theologians debated the nature of pneumata and their role in salvation.
• The Stoics believed pneumata permeated all matter in the universe.
• In Paul's epistles, pneumata refers to spiritual gifts bestowed upon believers.
• Ancient medical texts described pneumata as invisible currents flowing through the body.
• The concept of pneumata bridged material and spiritual realms in Hellenistic thought.