Kabuki-za
/ka̠bɯ̟ᵝkʲi d͡za/noun
Kabuki-za is Tokyo’s principal theater dedicated to traditional Japanese kabuki performances.
Did you know?The word kabuki is linked to Japanese kabuku, “to lean” or “to behave unconventionally,” describing the flamboyant “kabukimono” figures who defied social norms.
Etymological Timeline
16th–17th Century
Japanese
kabuku
“To lean, incline, or behave in an unconventional manner”
Early 17th Century
Japanese
kabuki
“An unconventional performance style that developed into kabuki theater”
17th Century
Japanese
za
“A seat, place, guild, or organized theatrical association”
1889
Japanese
Kabuki-za
““Kabuki seat” or “kabuki theater”; the name adopted by a theater established in Tokyo”
Modern English
English
Kabuki-za
“The major Tokyo theater and performance venue for kabuki”
Explore more surprising origins