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February (traditional Japanese calendar name)
The traditional Japanese name for the second month of the year. Part of the classical month naming system (和風月名) still used in formal writing, seasonal greetings, and literary contexts.
One of the twelve traditional Japanese month names (和風月名). Although the modern calendar uses 二月, 如月 appears in poetry, formal letters, and cultural contexts. Also used as a surname and given name.
Etymology
Several theories exist. The most popular is from 衣更着 (putting on more layers of clothing), because February is still very cold. Another theory connects it to the start of plant growth.
Alternate kanji
Also written 衣更着 based on the folk etymology.
Traditional month names (SURROUNDING MONTHS)
Usage
In the old lunisolar calendar, 如月 roughly corresponded to March in the modern calendar, which is why it is classified as a spring season word (季語) in haiku despite being "February" in name.