the court; palace circles; palace floor
Historical term referring to the imperial court or palace, especially in Heian-period contexts. Can denote the physical raised floor of the palace or the social circle of courtiers. Modern usage is limited to historical or literary descriptions.
Being admitted to the court was a great honor for the nobility.
The people of the court enjoyed waka poetry and music.
courtier; court official
palace floor; courtiers' hall
From 殿 (palace, noble hall) and 上 (above, upper), referring to the raised floor area of the imperial palace where courtiers gathered. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.