Angel in Japanese
"angel" is written as one word in Japanese. No single kanji carries the meaning on its own.
The characters below are the ones most often used to write "angel" and related ideas.
Which one to use
天使 (tenshi) is an angel, written 天 heaven and 使 messenger — a heavenly messenger, which is what the Greek word means too. No single character means angel. 翼 is a wing and 羽 a feather.
Top pick
heavens, sky, imperial
Reading: ten
4 strokes · mysterious, peaceful, nature
Where it comes from
Pictograph indicating space above a person's head. The area above a person (大).
What it carries
Heavens, abode of gods, fate. Used in important concepts like 'heavenly mandate' and 'emperor'.
Related kanji for "angel"
angel
shi
Composed of person and official. Sending someone.
angel
yoku · powerful, wisdom
Combines 'feathers' (羽) with 'spread' (異), depicting the large spreading wings birds use to fly. Figuratively also means assistance or support.
angel
u · nature
Pictograph of bird's feather.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for angel?
The most common kanji for "angel" is 天, read as ten. It means heavens, sky, imperial. Related kanji: 使 (angel), 翼 (angel), 羽 (angel).
How many strokes does 天 have?
天 has 4 strokes.