noun
the four major historical clans: Minamoto, Taira, Fujiwara, and Tachibana
Refers collectively to the four most prominent noble clans of ancient Japan: 源 (Minamoto/Genji), 平 (Taira/Heike), 藤 (Fujiwara), and 橘 (Tachibana). Used in historical or literary contexts.
源平藤橘は、古代日本の四大氏族として知られている。
The Genji, Heike, Fujiwara, and Tachibana are known as the four great clans of ancient Japan.
Compound of the first kanji of each clan name: 源 (Minamoto), 平 (Taira), 藤 (Fujiwara), and 橘 (Tachibana).