noun
Japanese peerage (1869-1947); nobility; aristocracy
Historical term for the hereditary noble class established in the Meiji era and abolished after WWII. Often used in historical or period contexts.
See also: 五等爵
華族制度は明治時代に始まり、戦後に廃止された。
The peerage system began in the Meiji era and was abolished after the war.
彼の家系は旧華族の出身だ。
His family is descended from the former nobility.