What is the Kanji for 'Samurai'? | 士

If you are wondering what is the Japanese Kanji for 'Samurai', you've come to the right place!

The Japanese Kanji for 'Samurai' is 士.

kanji

士

Meaning

Samurai

Reading

onyomiし

shi

Example Word

武士: samurai. The Japanese noun '武士 (ぶし)' refers to a 'samurai', a member of the warrior class in feudal Japan. Samurai were known for their strict adherence to the code of bushido, which emphasized honor, discipline, and loyalty. They were skilled in martial arts and often served as retainers to daimyo (feudal lords). Example sentences: The samurai was very brave「武士はとても勇敢だった」(ぶしはとてもゆうかんだった). The samurai carried a sword「武士は刀を持っていた」(ぶしはかたなをもっていた). The term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who embodies the qualities of a samurai, such as bravery and honor.

Radical

士

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

189

Handwriting

士 As Part Of Other Kanji

This kanji appears as part of 10 other kanji:

kanji

声

Meaning

Voice

kanji

売

Meaning

Sell

kanji

仕

Meaning

Serve

kanji

志

Meaning

Intention

kanji

吉

Meaning

Lucky, Good luck

kanji

壮

Meaning

Grand, Robust

kanji

穀

Meaning

Grain, Cereal

kanji

隷

Meaning

Slave

kanji

壱

Meaning

One

kanji

款

Meaning

Article, Goodwill

Words Using 士

This kanji is used in 7 words:

word

士

Meaning

Expert

word

博士

Meaning

Doctor, Expert

word

武士

Meaning

Samurai

word

兵士

Meaning

Soldier

word

紳士

Meaning

Gentleman

word

同士

Meaning

Companion

word

弁護士

Meaning

Lawyer

Learn the Kanji 士

Let's make sure you fully understand this kanji.

What does 士 mean?

士 means 'Samurai'.

Japanese school students learn this kanji in Fourth Grade, while non-native learners often study it for the JLPT N1 exam.

To help you master this kanji, here's an interactive lesson where you'll practice its readings and meanings.