1.
salaryman, white-collar worker, office worker
A male employee of a company who receives a regular salary. The term represents the typical Japanese corporate employee, especially in business contexts.
Etymology: English 'salary' + 'man' (wasei-eigo/Japanese-made English)
Cultural significance: The term サラリーマン became iconic during Japan's economic growth period (1960s-1980s), representing the dedicated corporate worker who prioritizes company loyalty.
Gender note: サラリーマン traditionally refers to male workers. The female equivalent is OL (オーエル, 'office lady'), though this term is increasingly seen as outdated. More gender-neutral terms like 会社員 (company employee) are now preferred.