Kappa: meaning, definitions and examples

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kappa

 

[ หˆkรฆpษ™ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mythological creature

Kappa is a creature from Japanese folklore, often depicted as a water-dwelling amphibian with a turtle-like shell and a dish on its head that holds water. These mythical beings are known for their mischievous behavior and are said to inhabit rivers and ponds, luring unsuspecting humans into the water. While they can be dangerous, kappa are also known for their honor code; if one loses its dish of water, it can lose its powers. They are often associated with rice and farming, believed to help in agriculture but also to cause mischief.

Synonyms

mythical creature, river demon, water spirit.

Examples of usage

  • The kappa pulled the fisherman into the water.
  • In Japanese folklore, kappa are known for challenging people to sumo wrestling matches.
  • Kappas are often celebrated in festivals along rivers in Japan.

Translations

Translations of the word "kappa" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น kappa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค•เคชเฅเคชเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Kappa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kappa

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะบะฐะฟะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ kappa

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚ซใƒƒใƒ‘

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท kappa

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ kappa

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท kappa

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์นดํŒŒ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ูƒุงุจุง

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kappa

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ kappa

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅกๅธ•

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ kappa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ kappa

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะบะฐะฟะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ™แƒแƒžแƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kappa

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ kappa

Etymology

The term 'kappa' originates from the Japanese language, specifically from the word 'ๆฒณ็ซฅ' (kappa), which translates to 'river child.' The etymology reflects its association with rivers and water bodies. Kappa have been part of Japanese folklore for centuries, with their first mentions dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). They were often depicted in art and literature, evolving from mere river spirits to complex characters within Japanese mythology. Over time, kappa became a symbol of various cultural messages, ranging from warnings against drowning to representing the duality of nature โ€“ both protective and mischievous. Their iconography has persisted into modern times, sometimes appearing in manga, anime, and other forms of popular culture. The fascinating blend of fear and reverence that surrounds kappa highlights the rich tapestry of Japanese mythological heritage.