also: ばくか
noun
Historical term for a military camp or encampment, especially in pre-modern contexts.
戦国時代、幕下は戦略の拠点だった。
In the Warring States period, military camps were strategic bases.
noun
Refers to a subordinate or follower, especially in a feudal or military context.
彼は将軍の幕下として忠誠を誓った。
He pledged loyalty as a retainer of the shogun.
noun
direct retainer of a shogun; shogunal vassal
Specifically a direct vassal or retainer serving under a shogun.
幕下の中でも特に信頼された家臣がいた。
Among the shogun's direct retainers, there were especially trusted vassals.
noun
Honorific term for a shogun or general, used to show respect.
幕下におかれては、ご機嫌うるわしゅう存じます。
I hope Your Excellency the Shogun is in good spirits.
noun
general of the Imperial Guard (Nara/Heian); shogun (historical Chinese title)
Historical term for a general of the Imperial Guard during the Nara and Heian periods; also used as a Chinese-derived title for shogun.
奈良時代の幕下は、宮中の警護を担当した。
The generals of the Imperial Guard in the Nara period were responsible for palace security.
Composed of 幕 (curtain, tent, shogunate) and 下 (under, below). Literally 'under the curtain/tent', referring to a military camp or being under the command of a general. The historical derivation is uncertain; the spelling is conventionally associated with these meanings.