Details
Stroke Order
Cultural Context
Etymology
Composed of person and build. Person built strong.
Symbolism
Health, sound, strong. Represents being well.
Component Breakdown
person + 建
Words & Expressions
Words written with 健
Four-Character Compounds
質実剛健
しつじつごうけん
unaffected and sincere, with fortitude and vigor (vigour)
Proverbs & Idioms
健全なる精神は健全なる身体に宿る
けんぜんなるせいしんはけんぜんなるしんたいにやどる
A sound mind in a sound body
Physical health supports mental health
Related Figures & Stories
朝倉景健
Name contains 健
Asakura Kagetake was a Japanese samurai commander of the Sengoku era from Asakura clan.
WikipediaOther kanji with the same meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 健 mean in Japanese?
健 means healthy, health, strength, persistence.
How do you read 健?
On'yomi: ケン (KEN). Kun'yomi: すこ.やか (sukoyaka).
How many strokes does 健 have?
健 has 11 strokes. Its radical is 人 (person).
Is 健 a good kanji for a tattoo?
健 is one of the kanji most often chosen for tattoos. It means healthy, health, strength, persistence. Read the full meaning and cultural background on this page first — some popular choices are deliberately dark.
Explore by meaning:strength