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昴

On'yomi
コウ・ボウ
KOU / BOU
Kun'yomi
すばる
subaru

the Pleiades

Details

Strokes9
Radical日sun(4)

Stroke Order

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Strokes9

Cultural Context

Etymology

Combines 'sun' (日) with '卯,' referring to the Pleiades star cluster (Subaru). A constellation shining in winter skies.

Symbolism

Symbolizes constellations, radiance, and winter. As 'Subaru' in Japanese, represents unity and beauty.

Component Breakdown

昴=
日卯

sun + 卯

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 昴 mean in Japanese?

昴 means the Pleiades.

How do you read 昴?

On'yomi: コウ、ボウ (KOU, BOU). Kun'yomi: すばる (subaru).

How many strokes does 昴 have?

昴 has 9 strokes. Its radical is 日 (sun).

Is 昴 a good kanji for a tattoo?

昴 is one of the kanji most often chosen for tattoos. It means the Pleiades. Read the full meaning and cultural background on this page first — some popular choices are deliberately dark.