Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.
雌伏 (しふく) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Freq. Frequency Top 100,000 Conjugation Meanings 1
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
lying low ; biding one's time ; submitting for now
Often used in contrast with 雄飛 (ゆうひ, 'soaring high'). Describes a strategic retreat or temporary submission while waiting for the right moment to act. Literary and somewhat formal.
See also: 雄飛
After a period of biding his time, a chance finally came around.
Kanji 伏 prostrated, bend down, bow Similar words 雄ゆう 飛ひ 雄飛 means 'soaring high' or 'making a great leap forward,' often used as the opposite of 雌伏. While 雌伏 implies waiting in obscurity, 雄飛 describes active, bold advancement.
Etymology From the image of a female bird staying low and waiting, in contrast to a male bird flying high. The exact historical origin is uncertain, but the kanji 雌 (female) and 伏 (prostrate, lie low) convey the meaning of temporary submission or concealment.
