1.
star, leading figure, most popular
The most prominent, popular, or glamorous person or thing in a group or field. Originally from kabuki theater, where it referred to the star actor. Now used broadly for the star player, star attraction, or most glamorous role in any field.
彼はチームの花形だ。
He is the star of the team.
花形選手が怪我で欠場した。
The star player was absent due to injury.
かつては花形産業だった繊維業も、今は厳しい時代だ。
The textile industry, once a star industry, now faces tough times.
USAGE:
Originally a kabuki term for the star performer. Now used as a modifier (noun + noun) to describe the star or most glamorous element in any context: 花形選手 (star player), 花形産業 (star/glamour industry), 花形部署 (star department in a company).
The literal meaning is "flower shape," reflecting the idea that the star is like a flower — the most eye-catching part.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 花形選手: star player
- 花形産業: star industry, glamour industry
- 花形部署: prestigious department
- 花形役者: star actor