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Language Updated August 14, 2025

Maru in japanese

Maru in Japanese means circle and is often used in names to symbolize completeness or perfection. It can also refer to ships, like Fuji Maru, adding a sense of wholeness or safety.

Category

Language

Use Case

Refers to the Japanese word 'maru' (丸) meaning 'circle' or used as a suffix in names.

Key Features

In Simple Terms

What it is

"Maru" (?) is a simple Japanese word that means "circle." It’s like drawing a round shape with a pencil, but in Japanese, it’s used in many everyday situations. Think of it as a way to say "yes," "correct," or even to mark something as complete. It’s a small symbol with big uses.

Why people use it

People use "maru" because it’s quick, clear, and easy to understand. It’s like putting a checkmark (?) in English, but instead, you draw a circle. It saves time and avoids confusion. For example, teachers use it to mark right answers, and friends might use it in texts to show agreement. It’s a handy tool for communication.

Basic examples

Here’s how "maru" helps in real life:
  • Schoolwork: A teacher draws a "maru" next to correct answers, just like a gold star.
  • To-do lists: You might circle tasks you’ve finished instead of crossing them out.
  • Texting: Sending a "maru" in a chat can mean "got it" or "sounds good."
  • Games: Kids play games where "maru" means one thing (like "yes") and "batsu" (?) means "no."

  • It’s a small circle with a lot of power!

    Technical Details

    What it is


    The term "maru" (?) in Japanese is a kanji character meaning "circle" or "round." It belongs to the category of geometric symbols and is widely used in written and spoken language. In certain contexts, "maru" can also signify completeness, perfection, or something unblemished, reflecting its symbolic meaning beyond its literal shape.

    How it works


    The kanji "maru" functions as a standalone character or part of compound words. Its usage depends on context:
  • As a noun, it directly refers to a circle or round object.
  • As a suffix, it can denote affection (e.g., nicknames) or formality (e.g., ship names in Japan, where "Maru" is appended to vessel names).
  • In mathematics or geometry, it represents circular shapes or concepts.

  • The character is written in a specific stroke order, beginning with a horizontal line, followed by a vertical stroke, and ending with a curved enclosure to form the circle.

    Key components


    The kanji "?" consists of three primary strokes:
  • A short horizontal stroke at the top.
  • A vertical stroke descending from the center.
  • A curved stroke enclosing the lower half, forming the circle.

  • In compound words, "maru" may combine with other kanji to alter meaning, such as "??" (marui, meaning "round") or "???" (marumeru, meaning "to roll into a ball").

    Common use cases


  • Naming conventions: Used in Japanese ship names (e.g., "Hikawa Maru") as a traditional suffix.
  • Geometry and mathematics: Represents circles or spherical objects.
  • Language and slang: Appears in nicknames or terms of endearment (e.g., "Taro-maru").
  • Symbolism: Denotes completeness or perfection in phrases like "kanzen maru" (???, meaning "perfectly round").
  • Everyday objects: Labels round items like "maru-gata" (??, meaning "circular shape").