氏
う
じ
Meanings
1
Refers to one's ancestral family name or lineage, often in historical or formal contexts. Can also imply noble birth or pedigree.
He comes from a family of distinguished lineage.
Learn about the ancient clan system.
2
Historical term for a kinship group or clan in ancient Japan, often used in discussions of the uji-kabane system. Also used as a suffix in clan names (e.g., 藤原氏).
See also: 氏 (し)
This clan had lived in this region since ancient times.
The clan-and-title system was the foundation of the Yamato polity.
Usage patterns
- 氏を名乗るto take or bear a clan name
He decided to take his mother's clan name.
- 氏を賜るto be granted a clan name (esp. by the emperor, historically)
For his achievements, he was granted a new clan name by the emperor.
Expressions
- 氏より育ちnurture over nature; breeding matters more than birth
- 女氏無くして玉の輿に乗るeven a woman of low birth can marry into wealth and status