脳

• Reading: のう
• Romaji: nou
• Kanji breakdown: 脳 (nou) — brain
• Pronunciation: /noː/

Meaning

Brain; the organ of the central nervous system; also used for memory and intellect.

A noun referring to the physical brain and, by extension, mental capacity. Common compounds: 脳科学 (nou-kagaku, brain science/neuroscience), 頭脳 (zunou, brains/intellect), 脳卒中 (nou-sotchuu, stroke), 脳波 (nouha, brain waves), 洗脳 (sennou, brainwashing). In casual speech, 脳 can refer to one's way of thinking: 彼は理系脳だ (he has a science-oriented mind).

Examples

1. 人間の脳はとても複雑な構造をしている。 The human brain has an incredibly complex structure.
2. 寝不足だと脳がうまく働かない。 When you don't get enough sleep, the brain doesn't work well.
3. 脳科学の研究が近年大きく進んでいる。 Research in brain science has made great strides in recent years.

Usage Guide

Context: science, health, education

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 脳 combines 月 (flesh/body radical) and a phonetic component. Originally depicted the physical organ inside the skull. The simplified form replaced the older 腦.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal