Definition of mahjong

Short definition: The word mahjong refers to a classic tile game played by four people, where players draw, discard, and match tiles using strategy, memory, and a bit of luck, often enjoyed in social and family gatherings.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word mahjong? The word mahjong is commonly used in games, culture, and social gatherings, especially in East Asian communities. It refers to a traditional tile-based game that combines strategy, memory, and a bit of luck. You will hear it in family settings, game clubs, online apps, and cultural discussions. Because it can describe both the game and the activity of playing it, the meaning depends on context. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and practical.

Forms: mahjong
Related: tile n., board game n., strategy n.
Syllable: mah-jong

1. (Noun) A traditional tile based game played by matching sets planning moves and reading opponents over several rounds.

   Mahjong is a classic game that uses engraved tiles instead of cards, usually played by four people, where players draw discard and arrange tiles to form specific winning combinations while paying close attention to strategy timing and the actions of others.

   Every weekend the family gathers to play mahjong together spending hours talking laughing and competing in a friendly but focused atmosphere.
   Learning mahjong took time because each tile set and rule variation required careful attention and practice.
   Online mahjong apps have made the traditional game accessible to a younger generation around the world.

   Synonyms: tile game, traditional board game, strategy tile game, four player tile game, matching game, classic Asian game, cultural game, table game, mind game, social strategy game, tile matching game, traditional pastime
   Antonyms: card game, solo game, video action game, physical sport, single player activity, non strategy game, luck only game, outdoor sport, reflex game, non turn based game, physical competition, action game

2. (Noun) A social activity centered around gathering talking and bonding while playing a structured game.

   Beyond the rules, mahjong also refers to the social experience of sitting together sharing conversation food and stories while playing, making it an important cultural and community activity rather than just a game.

   For many elders mahjong is less about winning and more about spending time together and staying socially connected.
   The sound of tiles clicking during mahjong often fills the room with a warm familiar feeling.
   Weekly mahjong nights became a tradition that strengthened friendships over the years.

   Synonyms: social game, group pastime, cultural gathering, community activity, bonding game, shared tradition, social tradition, group table game, cultural pastime, family game, social ritual, friendly competition
   Antonyms: solitary activity, individual hobby, isolated play, solo pastime, private activity, non social task, lone entertainment, individual work, personal routine, independent task, isolated hobby, single player activity