亀
tortoise · turtle
Details
Stroke Order
Cultural Context
Etymology
Pictograph of turtle.
Symbolism
Longevity, immortality, divination. Represents long life and mystery.
Seasonal
As "crane and turtle," symbolizes longevity and celebrations. "Turtle sings" is a spring seasonal word; used as good luck charm for New Year.
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
亀毛兎角
きもうとかく
things that do not exist; fur on turtles, horns on rabbits; things that do not exist
兎角亀毛
とかくきもう
things that do not exist; horns on rabbits, fur on turtles; things that do not exist
盲亀浮木
もうきふぼく
unlikely event; rare occurrence; unlikely event
Proverbs & Idioms
鶴は千年、亀は万年
つるはせんねん、かめはまんねん
Cranes live a thousand years, turtles ten thousand
Wishing long life
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 亀 mean in Japanese?
亀 means tortoise, turtle.
How do you read 亀?
On'yomi: キ、キュウ、キン (KI, KYUU, KIN). Kun'yomi: かめ (kame).
How many strokes does 亀 have?
亀 has 11 strokes. Its radical is 乙 (second).
Is 亀 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 亀 (tortoise, turtle) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.