noun
armful; something carried in one's arms
Refers to the amount or bundle that can be held in one's arms, or the act of carrying something in one's arms. Often used in phrases like 抱えきれない (too much to hold).
彼は薪を一抱え持ってきた。
He brought an armful of firewood.
noun
employee; person under one's care
Used for someone who is employed or supported by a person or organization, often in a dependent or subordinate role. Common in compounds like 抱え主 (employer) or 抱えの運転手 (private chauffeur).
He is the company president's private chauffeur.
Verb form meaning 'to hold in one's arms' or 'to have (a problem, employee, etc.)'. 抱え is the noun derived from this verb.
Noun form of the verb 抱える (かかえる, 'to hold in one's arms; to employ'). The kanji 抱 means 'embrace' or 'hold'.