high-ranking noh actor; head of a noh school
Refers to a senior performer in the noh tradition, often the leader of a school or troupe. The term is specific to the world of noh theater.
His grandfather is renowned as a high-ranking noh actor.
The head of the noh school is giving lessons to his disciples.
Compound of 能 (noh theater) and 太夫 (a title for a high-ranking performer or leader). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term is conventionally associated with the noh tradition.