noun
Archaic, honorific term for the Japanese language. Not used in modern Japanese; encountered only in historical or literary contexts.
古い文献には「御国言葉」という表現が見られる。
The expression 御国言葉 can be found in old documents.
Modern standard word for the Japanese language. 御国言葉 is an archaic, honorific synonym.
Compound of 御 (honorific prefix) + 国 (country) + 言葉 (language). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it reflects a traditional, reverential way of referring to the Japanese language.