noun
male homosexual prostitute (Edo period)
Historical term for a young male sex worker who entertained at banquets during the Edo period. Now archaic and used only in historical contexts.
江戸時代の陰間は、宴席で芸を披露しながら客を取った。
During the Edo period, kagema performed arts at banquets while also serving clients sexually.
noun
kabuki actor-in-training
In kabuki, a young trainee actor, often associated with homosexual prostitution in historical contexts. Archaic usage.
陰間は歌舞伎の修行をしながら、時に客を取ることもあった。
Kagema trained in kabuki while sometimes also serving clients.
The term 陰間 (kagema) literally means 'shadow room' or 'hidden place', referring to the behind-the-scenes nature of their work. The exact derivation is uncertain.