Translation and Meaning of: 浜 - hama

The Japanese word 「浜」 (hama) is a term commonly used to refer to beaches or coasts in the geography of Japan. The etymology of the kanji character 「浜」 goes back to specific components that form its meaning. The radical 「氵」 (sanzui) indicates an association with water or aqueous elements, essential for describing coastal formations. The other component is 「兵」 (hei), which in other contexts is often related to soldiers, but in this case contributes phonetically to the sound of the kanji.

In the modern definition, 「浜」 (hama) is often used in combination with other words to describe specific beaches, such as 「浜辺」 (hamabe), which translates directly to "beach margin" or "shore." This expanded usage reflects the great importance of beaches in the culture and geography of Japan, an archipelago where coastlines play crucial roles in the daily lives of people.

Regarding the origin and historical use, 「浜」 (hama) maintains its focus on coastal elements, reflecting Japan's close relationship with the sea. Stories and folklore often highlight coastal settings, emphasizing the complex interaction between humans and the ocean. Traditionally, 「浜」 areas were places for subsistence activities, such as fishing, which were fundamental to the local community. This historical context underscores the significance of this word not only in the past but also in its persistence in modern vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 浜辺 (hamabe) - beach
• 浜岸 (hamagishi) - Beach margin
• 浜辺の砂 (hamabe no suna) - Beach sand
• 浜辺の砂浜 (hamabe no sunahama) - Sandy beach
• 浜口 (hamaguchi) - Beach entrance
• 浜の砂 (hama no suna) - Areia da costa
• 浜の砂浜 (hama no sunahama) - Coastal sand beach
• 浜辺の海 (hamabe no umi) - Sea of the beach
• 浜辺の波 (hamabe no nami) - Beach waves