yodan verb with 'su' ending (archaic), intransitive verb
to lie down (honorific, archaic)
Archaic honorific verb (sonkeigo) meaning 'to lie down'. Used in classical Japanese; in modern language, お休みになる or 横になる are used instead. Cross-referenced with 臥ゆ, an older form.
See also: 臥ゆ
古典文学では、貴人が「臥す」と記されることがある。
In classical literature, a noble person is sometimes described as 臥す (to lie down).
Modern neutral equivalent for 'to lie down'.
Modern honorific expression for 'to go to bed' or 'to rest'.
Classical Japanese verb; the exact derivation is uncertain. The kanji 臥 means 'to lie down' and is conventionally associated with this meaning.