brother; lay brother
Archaic term from early Japanese Christianity, borrowed from Portuguese 'irmão'. Refers to a non-ordained member of a Christian religious order.
from Portuguese irmão
During the Warring States period, religious brothers called 'イルマン' were active in Japan.
This document records what roles the lay brothers played in the church.
Katakana spelling is standard for this loanword; usually written in kana.
Ateji spelling used historically; not in modern use.
Ateji spelling used historically; not in modern use.
Ateji spelling used historically; not in modern use.
Borrowed from Portuguese 'irmão' (brother) during the 16th–17th century Christian mission period in Japan. The ateji spellings 入満, 伊留満, and 由婁漫 are phonetic approximations.