Other meanings
Samurai
Original collection wording is archived below. Read the dictionary explanation for context.
bushi / ぶし
Dictionary meaning
武士 refers to a warrior of the historical Japanese military class. Bushi is the reading of this written word. Samurai is an English label for the historical class, not the reading bushi.
Your intended symbolism
Your personal symbolism is separate from the dictionary meaning. Explain what you want this choice to express to a fluent Japanese reader and your artist.
Context & cautions
Specific tattoo-context notes are not yet available for this entry. Check the complete word, reading, and intended use with a fluent Japanese reader before choosing it.
Size & legibility: discuss with your artist
There is no universal minimum tattoo size based on stroke count. Ask your artist to check line weight, the gaps between strokes, placement, and how the lettering may age. Preview dimensions include transparent margins and are not a safe minimum size.
Typeface, output quality & sources →Dictionary reference: Japanese dictionary entry ↗
Dictionary links are references only. They do not mean that the linked organization certifies, endorses, or supervises this site.
From the original collection
The original wording and artwork are preserved in the source archive. Unverified cultural interpretations are not presented here as dictionary definitions.
Archived source spelling (before review)
Samurai kanji tattoo
武士: bushi
PICTURE YOUR PLACEMENT
See your kanji on skin
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From character to lettering
This is a typeset reference, rather than a tattoo stencil. Check the final drawing, orientation, and intended meaning with a fluent Japanese reader and your artist.
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