家紋
Japanese edit
Kanji in this term | |
---|---|
家 | 紋 |
か Grade: 2 |
もん Grade: S |
on’yomi |
Etymology edit
The reading is a kan'on-goon combination, suggesting that this term was probably coined in Japan of Middle Chinese-derived elements as a compound of 家 (ka, “house, family, household”) + 紋 (mon, “mark, design, pattern”).
Pronunciation edit
Noun edit
- a crest for a household or family
- Similar to the heraldic badges and coats of arms in European heraldic tradition. Initially held only by aristocratic families, then gradually adapted by commoners.