nari-adjective (archaic / formal)
Archaic nari-adjective describing something as outstanding, sufficient, or whole. Found in classical Japanese; not used in modern speech.
古典では「真面なる器」のように、立派で十分なさまを表した。
In classical texts, it described something excellent and ample, as in 'a fine vessel'.
nari-adjective (archaic / formal)
Archaic nari-adjective meaning proper, authentic, or true to form. Appears in old literary works.
「真面なる人」という表現は、偽りのない誠実な人を指した。
The phrase 'a genuine person' referred to someone sincere and without falsehood.
nari-adjective (archaic / formal)
Archaic nari-adjective for being direct and honest in character or manner. Limited to classical usage.
古い和歌では、率直な心を「真面なる心」と詠むことがあった。
In old waka poetry, a straightforward heart was sometimes expressed as 'a true heart'.
Modern descendant meaning 'serious, decent, front-facing'. Unlike まほ, まとも is in common use today.
The exact derivation is uncertain; it may be related to the classical adjective まほ (true, excellent), which is the root of modern まとも. The kanji 真面 and 真秀 are conventional spellings for this archaic word.