王様

• Reading: おうさま
• Romaji: ousama
• Kanji breakdown: 王 (ou) — king, ruler; 様 (sama) — honorific suffix
• Pronunciation: /o.ɯ.sa.ma/

Meaning

King. The ruler of a kingdom; used in fairy tales, games, and respectful references to royalty.

A noun combining 王 (king) and the honorific suffix 様 (sama). While 王 alone means 'king,' 王様 adds a layer of respect or familiarity, as in fairy tales (王様とお姫様, the king and the princess). Also used in the children's game 王様ゲーム (King's Game). For real-world monarchs, 国王 (kokuou) is more formal.

Examples

1. 昔々あるところに優しい王様がいました。 Once upon a time, there was a kind king.
2. 王様ゲームで変な命令をされた。 I got a weird command during the King's Game.
3. その国の王様は国民に愛されていた。 The king of that country was loved by his people.

Usage Guide

Context: fairy tales, games, history

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 王 depicts an axe or scepter, symbolizing authority and the power to rule. The addition of 様 (sama) makes it a respectful or story-appropriate form.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal