crude eastern warrior; wild man
Historical term for a rough, uncivilized warrior from the eastern regions of Japan, or more broadly a wild, barbaric man. Rare in modern usage.
In old documents, the figure of the crude eastern warrior as seen from the capital is recorded.
Compound of 荒 (rough, wild) and 夷 (barbarian, ancient term for non-Japanese peoples or uncivilized locals). The exact historical derivation is uncertain.