Matsuri
/ma̠.tsɯ̟.ɾi/noun
A Japanese festival, especially one associated with a Shinto shrine or seasonal celebration.
Did you know?The word is traditionally connected with Japanese matsuru, “to serve or worship,” reflecting the idea that a matsuri is an occasion for presenting offerings and honoring kami.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Japanese
Japanese
matsuru
“To serve, attend upon, or worship a deity”
Ancient Japanese
Japanese
matsurau
“To serve or honor ceremonially; a related form associated with ritual observance”
Classical Japanese
Japanese
matsuri
“A religious rite, ceremony, or observance”
Heian Period
Japanese
祭り
“A formal celebration or rite honoring a kami”
Modern Japanese
Japanese
祭り
“A festival, celebration, or religious observance”
Modern English
English
matsuri
“A Japanese festival, used as a loanword in English”
Explore more surprising origins