prefix
Prefix used in a few fixed compounds to express affection, such as 愛弟子 (beloved disciple) or 愛娘 (dear daughter). Not freely productive.
「愛弟子」の「愛」は、師が特にかわいがる弟子を表す。
The 愛 in 愛弟子 indicates a disciple whom the master is especially fond of.
「愛娘」という言葉には、親の深い愛情が込められている。
The word 愛娘 carries a parent's deep affection.
The common reading あい is the standard word for 'love' and is much more widely used. まな is a bound prefix found only in a few set expressions.
The reading まな is an old native Japanese reading for the kanji 愛, preserved in a small number of compound words. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.