Japanese

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ËŒdʒæpəˈniːz/
• Rhymes: -iːz

Origin

From Japan + -ese.

Full definition of Japanese

Adjective

1. Of, relating to, or derived from Japan, its language, or culture.A Japanese saw is one that cuts on the pull stroke rather than on the push stroke.In the United States, Japanese animation has had a tremendous surge in popularity over the last few years.

Noun

1. A person living in or coming from Japan, or of Japanese ancestry.A Japanese will typically have black hair, brown eyes, and pale skin.
• 2007 October 16, Madeleine Brand, “Japan Struggles to Meet Its CO2 Emissions Limits”, Day to Day, National Public Radio,Motoyuki Shibata isn’t a typical Japanese.
2. Plural of Japanese
3. (uncountable) Japanese food.Let’s go out to eat. I’m in the mood for Japanese.

Usage notes

(person in or from Japan) The singular “a Japanese” is less common than locutions using the adjective, such as “a Japanese person”, and may be considered offensive by many speakers.

Proper noun

1. The main language spoken in Japan.I’ve been studying Japanese for three years, and I still can’t order pizza in Tokyo!

Derived terms

Synonyms

• Nihongo