noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
become firmly established; put down strong roots
Describes a person, group, or influence becoming deeply entrenched in a place or position, often with a nuance of being hard to remove. Used in formal or literary contexts.
その政治家は地元に蟠踞し、長年権力を握っている。
That politician has become firmly established in the local area and has held power for many years.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
exercise authority; hold sway; be dominant
Emphasizes the active wielding of power or influence from an entrenched position. Often used of political bosses, factions, or dominant figures.
かつては藩閥が政府に蟠踞していた。
In the past, the domain cliques held sway over the government.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
settle in a coiled shape
Original, literal meaning: to coil up and settle in a place, like a dragon or snake. Now rare and mostly encountered in classical or figurative descriptions.
伝説では、龍がこの山に蟠踞しているという。
Legend has it that a dragon lies coiled on this mountain.