also: えこ
noun
Only with reading ちょうし
Refers to the firstborn child regardless of gender. Often used in formal or written contexts. Contrasts with 末子 (ばっし, youngest child).
See also: 末子 (ばっし)
彼は長子として家を継ぐ責任がある。
As the eldest child, he has the responsibility to succeed the family.
長子には特別な手
noun
Specifically the eldest son. In traditional contexts, the eldest son often holds a special status in family succession. This sense is less common in modern gender-neutral usage.
長子の太郎が家業を継いだ。
The eldest son, Taro, took over the family business.
A special allowance is provided for the first child.
Obsolete kana reading; not used in modern Japanese.
Compound of 長 (chō, 'eldest') and 子 (shi, 'child'). The reading えこ is an older, now obsolete, kun'yomi-based reading.