Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Confucius · IPA /kənˈfjuʃəs/ 01 n. a Chinese philosopher (circa 551-478 BC), the founder of Confucianism. 1. a Chinese philosopher (circa 551-478 BC), the founder of Confucianism. Syn. Kung futzu, Kung futze, Kung tzu, K'ung fu-tze.