Daimio

/ˈdaɪmioʊ/ noun

Definition

A feudal Japanese lord or nobleman who ruled a domain during the Edo period and other feudal eras of Japan.

Etymology

From Japanese 'daimyo' (大名), literally meaning 'big name' (dai = great, myo = name). The term became standard in English texts about Japanese history from the 17th century onward.

Kelly Says

Daimios were so powerful they could legally carry two swords while commoners could carry none—this single fashion rule encoded the entire rigid class system of feudal Japan into daily dress codes.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.