KAKURYU Meaning and
Definition
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Kakuryu is a proper noun mainly used in the context of sumo wrestling. It refers to a rank or title held by a professional sumo wrestler who has achieved the second highest position in the sport. The word "kakuryu" is of Japanese origin and can be translated as "horned dragon." This term is specific to the sport of sumo and is used to denote a sumo wrestler who has reached the rank of yokozuna, also known as the grand champion, within the highest division of professional sumo.
To attain the rank of kakuryu, a sumo wrestler must demonstrate exceptional skills, physical prowess, and moral character. They are expected to consistently perform at the highest level and be role models both inside and outside of the ring. Kakuryu is considered one of the highest honors a sumo wrestler can achieve and only a select few are able to reach this prestigious rank.
The kakuryu rank is distinguished by the wearing of a white rope known as a "tsuna" around their waist during matches. This white rope signifies their prestigious status as a yokozuna. Along with the tsuna, wrestlers at this rank are also allowed to wear a decorative apron called a "keshomawashi" during their ring entrance ceremonies.
In summary, kakuryu is a rank within the sport of sumo wrestling, representing the second highest position or title a sumo wrestler can achieve, synonymous with the rank of yokozuna.
Etymology of KAKURYU
The name "Kakuryu" is not a word with a specific etymology in the traditional sense, as it is a personal or stage name used by a sumo wrestler. In sumo, wrestlers adopt a ring name or shikona, which is usually chosen by their sumo stablemaster or oyakata. These names often hold significance and may reflect the wrestler's aspirations, personality traits, or their stablemaster's wishes for their career.
In the case of the sumo wrestler Kakuryu, his ring name consists of two kanji characters: 鶴 (kaku) meaning "crane" and 龍 (ryu) meaning "dragon". The kanji characters are typically chosen to create a harmonious and powerful-sounding name. However, it is important to note that the etymology of Kakuryu relates more to its meaning as a name rather than as a word with a linguistic etymology.
