noun
end leaves; top leaves; last leaves
Archaic noun referring to the leaves at the end or top of a branch, or the last leaves of a season. Not used in modern everyday Japanese.
See also: 末葉 (うらば)
古歌に「末葉の露」と詠まれた表現がある。
There is an expression in old poetry, 'dew on the end leaves'.
noun
Archaic metaphorical use: the 'last leaves' of a family line, i.e., a descendant. Compare with 末葉 (まつよう) which has a similar meaning.
See also: 末葉 (まつよう)
彼は名門の末葉として生まれたと伝えられる。
He is said to have been born as a descendant of a distinguished family.