Japanese

UK: ˌdʒæpəˈniːz | US: ˌdʒæpəˈniːz

Definition

  1. n. a person from Japan or of Japanese descent

  2. adj. relating to Japan, its people, or their language

  3. n. the language spoken in Japan

Structure
Japan <country name>ese <denoting origin or language>
Etymology

The word "Japanese" combines "Japan," derived from the Mandarin Chinese "Rìběn" (日本, "origin of the sun"), with the suffix "-ese," which denotes origin or language (e.g., "Chinese," "Portuguese"). The suffix "-ese" traces back to Latin "-ensis," meaning "belonging to." The term reflects European naming conventions for East Asian cultures, emphasizing geographic and linguistic identity.

Examples

  1. She is studying Japanese at university.

  2. Japanese cuisine is famous for its delicate flavors.

  3. The Japanese embassy hosted a cultural event.

  4. He collects traditional Japanese pottery.

  5. Many Japanese companies operate globally.