How Do You Spell FUJIWARA?

Pronunciation: [fˌuːd͡ʒɪwˈɑːɹə] (IPA)

Fujiwara is a Japanese surname that consists of two syllables: fu-ji-wa-ra. The first syllable, "fu," is pronounced like "foo" in English. The second syllable, "ji," is pronounced like "gee" with a soft "j" sound. The third syllable, "wa," is pronounced like "wah" with a slight emphasis on the "a" sound. The final syllable, "ra," is pronounced similarly to "rah" in English. The spelling of Fujiwara may be confusing for non-Japanese speakers, but its phonetic transcription can help in proper pronunciation.

FUJIWARA Meaning and Definition

1. Fujiwara is a Japanese surname that has both historical and contemporary significance. It is derived from the combination of Fuji, meaning "wisteria," and wara, meaning "field" or "plain." The most famous Fujiwara clan, known as the "Northern Fujiwara," dominated the political landscape in ancient Japan from the 9th to 12th centuries. They held significant power as advisors to the imperial court and married into the imperial family, resulting in their control over political affairs.

   The Fujiwara clan played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural, artistic, and political landscape of Japan during this era. They established a system of dynastic control where women from their clan married emperors, ensuring their influence over the throne. This family's power declined in the late 12th century as the samurai class rose to prominence and eventually overtook them as the dominant political force.

   In contemporary Japan, the Fujiwara surname has spread among various families not directly linked to the ancient Fujiwara clan. While these families might not have the same historical relevance as the original clan, the surname still carries a sense of pride and heritage.

   Overall, "Fujiwara" refers to a prominent Japanese surname, historically associated with a powerful aristocratic clan that significantly influenced the politics and culture of ancient Japan. Nowadays, it continues to be used by various families, serving as a reminder of their ancestral heritage.

Common Misspellings for FUJIWARA

• fujiiwara
• fuiwara
• fujiwra
• fujiwaraa
• Fubiwara
• Fujywara

Etymology of FUJIWARA

The word "Fujiwara" has its origins in the Japanese language and consists of two kanji characters: "藤" (fuji) meaning "wisteria" and "原" (wara) meaning "field" or "plain".

The Fujiwara clan, which played a prominent role in Japanese politics and society during the Heian period (794-1185), took their name from the location of their residence in the Yamato Province. The clan's ancestral home was situated near an area known for its wisteria fields or a plain surrounded by wisteria plants. Hence, the clan adopted the name "Fujiwara" to reflect their connection to this geographical feature.

Over time, the Fujiwara clan gained immense power and influence, with many members serving as regents and marrying into the imperial family, thereby reinforcing their status as one of the most significant noble families in Japan.