1.
weeping (tree); drooping branches
Describes branches that hang downward in a graceful, drooping manner. Most commonly used as a prefix for tree varieties whose branches grow downward, especially cherry and willow trees.
枝垂れ桜が満開だ。
The weeping cherry tree is in full bloom.
庭に立派な枝垂れ柳がある。
There is a magnificent weeping willow in the garden.
京都の円山公園の枝垂れ桜は、毎年大勢の花見客を集める。
The weeping cherry tree in Kyoto's Maruyama Park draws crowds of cherry blossom viewers every year.
From the verb 枝垂れる (to droop, to hang down). Almost always used as a prefix modifying a tree name. The word evokes elegance and beauty, and 枝垂れ桜 in particular is one of the most celebrated sights of spring in Japan.
COMMON COMPOUNDS:
- 枝垂れ桜: weeping cherry tree — the most famous variety
- 枝��れ柳: weeping willow
- 枝垂れ梅: weeping plum tree
- 枝垂れ藤: weeping wisteria
CULTURAL CONTEXT:
The 枝垂れ桜 is a symbol of classical Japanese beauty, frequently depicted in art and poetry. Famous examples include the 祇園の枝垂れ桜 in Kyoto and the 三春滝桜 in Fukushima, which is over 1,000 years old. 枝垂れ桜 typically blooms slightly earlier than other cherry varieties.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 垂れる: to hang down, to droop — the general verb for drooping
- 柳: willow — often associated with drooping branches even without the 枝垂れ prefix