also: きゅうちょう · くじゅう
noun
ninefold; nine-layered; many-layered
A literary noun meaning something having nine layers or folds; often functions attributively with の, as in 九重の塔. The idea may also suggest many layers rather than a purely mathematical count in poetic use.
その寺には、昔、九重の塔があったと伝えられている。
It is said that the temple once had a nine-tiered pagoda.
noun
Old literary extension from the image of a palace enclosed by many layers or gates. In modern ordinary prose, 宮中, 皇居, or 朝廷 would usually be clearer.
古典では、九重が帝の住む宮中を指すことがある。
In classical writing, 九重 can refer to the imperial palace where the emperor resides.