suffix
honorific suffix for names
Archaic honorific suffix attached to names, similar to modern ～さん or ～様. Used in historical or formal contexts, often for deities, nobles, or respected figures. Also carries a familiar nuance in some usages.
古い文書では「太郎主」のように人名に付けて敬意を表した。
In old documents, it was attached to personal names like 'Tarō-nushi' to show respect.
神社では「神主」のように神職の名称に残っている。
It remains in titles for Shinto priests, such as 'kannushi'.
The historical derivation is uncertain; the kanji 主 is conventionally associated with the meaning 'master' or 'lord', reflecting the honorific nature of the suffix.