Translation and Meaning of: 仙 - sen

The Japanese word 仙[せん] carries deep meanings and a fascinating history, connected to both spirituality and popular culture. In this article, we'll explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese life. If you are studying the language or simply curious about unique terms, understanding 仙 will enrich your knowledge of the language and the Japanese mindset.

In addition to uncovering the etymology and practical uses, we will see how this word appears in cultural contexts, from ancient legends to modern references. Suki Nihongo, your reliable Japanese dictionary, has gathered accurate information for you to learn clearly and directly. Shall we?

Meaning and origin of 仙[せん]

The kanji 仙 is composed of two elements: the radical 人 (person) and 山 (mountain). Together, they suggest the idea of a "hermit of the mountains" or someone who transcends ordinary life. In Chinese and Japanese culture, this character is linked to immortal figures or reclusive sages, often associated with Taoist practices of longevity and spiritual wisdom.

Historically, the concept of 仙 dates back to Chinese Taoism, where xian (as pronounced in Mandarin) represents beings who have achieved immortality through spiritual cultivation. In Japan, this idea was assimilated and adapted, appearing in folklore and even in artistic representations. Although it is not a word used in everyday life, its meaning still resonates in certain contexts.

Cultural and modern use of 仙

In contemporary Japan, 仙 is not a term frequently used in daily conversations, but it appears in place names, martial arts, and even in works of fiction. For example, the city of Sendai (仙台) incorporates this kanji in its name, reflecting a historical connection to the idea of elevated wisdom. In mangas and animes, characters with supernatural abilities or mystical origins sometimes carry this ideogram in their names or titles.

It is worth noting that, although it has a spiritual air, 仙 can also be found in expressions like 仙人 (sennin), which refers to legendary hermits with extraordinary powers. This word appears in traditional stories and even in games, demonstrating how the concept remains alive in the Japanese imagination, albeit indirectly.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember the kanji 仙 is to associate it with its visual composition: a "person" (人) who lives in the "mountains" (山). This mental image helps to reinforce not only the writing but also the meaning behind the character. Another tip is to seek concrete examples, such as names of cities or compound terms that use this ideogram, creating practical connections.

Interestingly, 仙 also appears in words like 仙骨 (sacrum, in anatomy), showing how an ancient term can have modern technical uses. If you encounter this kanji in texts or signs, you now know that it carries a rich cultural heritage full of symbolism.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 仙人 (senjin) - To be supernatural, generally a wise man or immortal.
• 仙女 (senjo) - To be supernatural, typically a wise or immortal woman.
• 仙道 (sendō) - Path of the immortals, a spiritual practice related to the quest for immortality.
• 仙術 (senjutsu) - Crafting or technique of immortality, supernatural abilities.
• 仙界 (senkai) - World of the immortals, a dimension inhabited by supernatural beings.

仙

Romaji: sen
Kana: せん
Type: noun
L: -

Translation / Meaning: hermit; wizard

Meaning in English: hermit;wizard

Definition: An entity that claims to become a spirit after a person's death.

Example Sentences - (仙) sen

See below some example sentences:

仙人は山に住んでいます。

Sennin wa yama ni sunde imasu

Hermits live in the mountains.

Sennin lives in the mountains.

• 仙人 - a word in Japanese that means "hermit" or "immortal sage."
• は - a grammatical particle in Japanese that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 山 - a word in Japanese that means "mountain".
• に - a grammatical particle in Japanese that indicates the location of the action.
• 住んでいます - a Japanese expression that means "to live" or "to reside".