上皇
Meanings
1
retired emperor; emperor emeritus
Honorific term for a former emperor who has abdicated. Used in historical contexts and for modern abdicated emperors.
The retired emperor leads a quiet life after abdication.
In Japanese history, there was a period when retired emperors ruled from behind the scenes.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が上皇となるfor someone to become a retired emperor
His Majesty the Emperor abdicated and became the retired emperor.
- 上皇として〈事〉in the capacity of retired emperor, doing something
He continues to carry out official duties as the retired emperor.