竜(りゅう)

Writing

竜(りゅう) is the simplified form (shinjitai). The traditional form is 龍(りゅう), which is still widely used in names, temples, and decorative contexts. Both are read りゅう.

Common collocations

• 竜巻(たつまき): tornado (literally "dragon roll")
• 恐竜(きょうりゅう): dinosaur
• 竜(りゅう)の落(お)とし子(ご): seahorse (literally "dragon's child")
• 登竜門(とうりゅうもん): gateway to success (from the Chinese legend of carp leaping the Dragon Gate)

Cultural note

Dragons in Japanese culture are guardians of water and are commonly depicted on temple ceilings, festival floats, and New Year decorations. The 十二支(じゅうにし) (Chinese zodiac) includes 辰(たつ) (dragon) as the fifth sign.