noun
unrecognized genius; hidden talent
A yojijukugo describing a gifted young person whose exceptional ability is not yet widely known. Often used in literary or formal contexts.
彼はまさに臥竜鳳雛、まだ世に知られていないが、いずれ大成するだろう。
He is truly an unrecognized genius; though still unknown to the world, he will surely achieve great things.
麒麟児 also refers to a prodigy or exceptionally gifted child, but it emphasizes brilliance and promise more directly, without the nuance of being hidden or unrecognized.
From Chinese legend, combining 臥竜 (sleeping dragon) and 鳳雛 (young phoenix), both metaphors for hidden or budding genius. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the phrase is used in classical literature to praise unrecognized talent.