神様
Meaning in Englishgod
Animated kanji stroke order
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Word context
What it means
神様 means a god or deity in Japanese, a sacred being addressed with respect in prayer and worship across Shinto and Buddhist contexts. It is also used in casual speech to refer to a benevolent or savior-like figure, or to express gratitude for a helpful person.
Main meanings
- Polite term for a god or deity in Shinto and Buddhist contexts.
- Object of worship or reverence in prayers and rituals.
- Figurative sense for someone perceived as exceptionally helpful or benevolent, similar to a savior in everyday speech.
How to use it
Used in religious contexts to address or refer to a deity, especially in prayers and shrine talk; in casual speech it can refer to a benevolent figure or be used affectionately when speaking about someone who helps a lot; can appear in exclamations as a mild religious or playful expression.
Variants and close terms
- 神 (kami) — deity, general term, less formal
- 女神 (megami) — goddess
- 仏様 (hotoke-sama) — Buddha or Buddhist figure, respectful form
Composition
- 神: deity, spirit
- 様: polite suffix indicating respect
Etymology
神 (kami) + 様 (sama) combine to form kamisama, with the reading kamisama. The kanji convey a divine being and a respectful suffix, yielding a reverent designation for a deity.
Origin
Historically rooted in Shinto as the concept of kami, with Buddhist influence shaping its reverent usage; the term appears in classical Japanese literature and religious practice, reflecting long-standing honorific address toward the divine across periods.
Word class
noun (名詞)