能面
Meanings
1
noh mask
Refers to the masks used in Noh theater, often with a fixed, expressionless appearance. Also used figuratively for an inscrutable facial expression.
He sat there with a face like a noh mask.
This noh mask is from the Muromachi period.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が能面をつけるfor someone to put on a Noh mask
The actor put on a Noh mask and stood on the stage.
- 能面のように〈形容詞〉expressionless like a Noh mask
She had a cold, expressionless face like a Noh mask.
Expressions
- 能面のような顔deadpan face; expressionless face; po-faced