end leaves; top leaves; last leaves
Archaic noun referring to the leaves at the end or top of a branch, or the last leaves of a season. Not used in modern everyday Japanese.
See also: 末葉 (うらば)
There is an expression in old poetry, 'dew on the end leaves'.
Archaic metaphorical use: the 'last leaves' of a family line, i.e., a descendant. Compare with 末葉 (まつよう) which has a similar meaning.
See also: 末葉 (まつよう)
He is said to have been born as a descendant of a distinguished family.
Compound of 末 (すえ, 'end, tip') and 葉 (は, 'leaf'), with rendaku voicing. The descendant sense is a metaphorical extension.