Kabuki: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ญ
kabuki
[ kษหbuหki ]
Japanese theater
Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theater known for its stylized drama and the elaborate make-up worn by its performers. It began in the early 17th century and has been recognized as an important cultural art form. Kabuki incorporates music, dance, and acting, often featuring historical tales, moral conflicts, and supernatural elements. Performances are characterized by their vibrant costumes and the use of exaggerated movements, which help convey the emotional intensity of the stories. It is traditionally performed by male actors, even in roles that depict women.
Synonyms
Japanese theater, traditional drama
Examples of usage
- I attended a kabuki performance in Tokyo.
- The kabuki actors wore stunning costumes.
- Kabuki shows often include live musical accompaniment.
- Her passion for kabuki led her to study traditional Japanese arts.
Translations
Translations of the word "kabuki" in other languages:
๐ต๐น kabuki
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเคฌเฅเคเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Kabuki
๐ฎ๐ฉ kabuki
๐บ๐ฆ ะบะฐะฑัะบั
๐ต๐ฑ kabuki
๐ฏ๐ต ๆญ่ไผ
๐ซ๐ท kabuki
๐ช๐ธ kabuki
๐น๐ท kabuki
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ฐ๋ถํค
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงุจููู
๐จ๐ฟ kabuki
๐ธ๐ฐ kabuki
๐จ๐ณ ๆญ่ไผ
๐ธ๐ฎ kabuki
๐ฎ๐ธ kabuki
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบะฐะฑัะบะธ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแฃแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ kabuki
๐ฒ๐ฝ kabuki
Etymology
The word 'kabuki' (ๆญ่ไผ) consists of three kanji characters: 'ka' (ๆญ) meaning 'song', 'bu' (่) meaning 'dance', and 'ki' (ไผ) meaning 'skill' or 'art'. This reflects the art's combination of music, dance, and dramatic performance. Kabuki originated in the early Edo period (1603-1868), with the first performances credited to a woman named Izumo no Okuni. Initially, it was performed by women, until in the late 17th century, the government prohibited women from acting due to moral concerns. As a result, male actors began to take over, and the practice of 'onnagata' emerged, where men played female roles. Over the years, kabuki evolved, incorporating decorative elements like elaborate costumes, intricate make-up, and specific acting styles. It became a popular form of entertainment for the samurai class and eventually for the general populace, gaining international recognition as a quintessential representation of Japanese culture.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #34,478 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
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- 34475 oaf
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- 34477 chairwoman
- 34478 kabuki
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- 34480 compartmental
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