殿様

とのさま
JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

An honorific term for a nobleman or dignitary; somewhat old-fashioned but conveys respect.

NounHonorific or Respectful (Sonkeigo) Language

Examples

殿様がお出ましになると、皆が一斉に頭を下げた。

When the lord appeared, everyone bowed at once.

2

Historically, a feudal lord (daimyo) of the Edo period or similar eras.

NounHistorical TermHonorific or Respectful (Sonkeigo) Language

Examples

江戸時代の殿様は領地を治めていた。

Daimyo in the Edo period governed their domains.

3

A colloquial term for someone who is sheltered, arrogant, or pampered and ignorant of the ways of the world.

Noun

Examples

彼はいつも人に尽くしてもらって、まるで殿様みたいだ。

He's always being waited on by others — like a spoiled lord.

そんな暮らしをしていたら殿様になるよと母に笑われた。

My mother laughed and said that if I kept living like that I'd turn into a spoiled lord.

Word Relationships

Synonyms