also: とがた
noun
square shape; square
Only with reading ますがた
General term for a square shape or form. Often used in contexts like measuring boxes, patterns, or layouts.
この庭園には升形の池がある。
This garden has a square pond.
noun
square bearing block (atop a pillar)
Only when written 斗形
Architectural term for a square wooden block placed on top of a pillar to support beams. Read とがた or ますがた.
斗形は柱の上に置かれる部材だ。
The square bearing block is a member placed on top of a pillar.
noun
castle square; bailey between gates
Only with reading ますがた
In Japanese castle architecture, a rectangular courtyard between the inner and outer gates where defending troops could assemble.
升形は敵の侵入を遅らせるための空間だった。
The castle square was a space designed to delay enemy intrusion.
Also read とがた for the architectural sense.
Reading とがた is specific to the architectural bearing block sense.
四角 is the common word for square or rectangle in everyday language, while 升形 is more specific to shapes resembling a measuring box or used in historical/architectural contexts.
Compound of 升 (masu, 'measuring box') and 形 (kata/gata, 'shape'). The measuring box was traditionally square, giving rise to the meaning 'square shape'. The architectural uses derive from the square form of the block or courtyard.