千歳
ち
と
せ
Meanings
1
thousand years; millennium; eternity
poetical term
Poetic term for a very long time, often implying permanence or an extremely long lifespan. Used in classical contexts, place names, and fixed expressions like 千歳飴.
A great tree that has lived for a thousand years stands in the forest.
This shrine boasts a history of a thousand years.
Usage patterns
- 千歳の〈物〉a thousand-year(-old) ~; an eternal ~
In this region there is a great pine tree called the 'thousand-year pine.'
- 千歳を経るto pass through a thousand years; to endure for ages
This shrine hall has endured for a thousand years and still stands strong.