姿

• Reading: すがた
• Romaji: sugata
• Kanji breakdown: 姿 (shi/sugata) — figure, form, appearance
• Pronunciation: /sɯ.ɡa.ta/

Meaning

Figure; shape; appearance; form. The outward look or silhouette of a person or thing.

A noun describing someone's visible form, posture, or overall appearance. Often carries an emotional or aesthetic nuance — 姿 suggests how someone looks in a particular state or role. Common expressions include 姿を見せる (to show oneself) and 姿を消す (to disappear).

Examples

1. 母の働く姿を見て感動した。 I was moved by the sight of my mother working.
2. 彼は人混みの中に姿を消した。 He disappeared into the crowd.
3. 着物姿の女性がとても美しかった。 The woman in a kimono was very beautiful.

Usage Guide

Context: literature, daily life, descriptions

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 姿 combines 次 (next, following) and 女 (woman). Originally described the graceful form or bearing of a woman, later generalized to any figure or appearance.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal