noun
ruffian palanquin bearer (Edo period)
Historical term for a rough, often exploitative palanquin bearer during the Edo period. Not used in modern contexts except in historical descriptions.
江戸時代の雲助は、旅人から法外な駄賃を要求することがあった。
During the Edo period, ruffian palanquin bearers sometimes demanded exorbitant fees from travelers.
noun
thug; ruffian; scoundrel; exploiter
Derogatory term for a thuggish or exploitative person. Carries a strong negative connotation and is not used in polite conversation.
あんな雲助みたいな奴に金を貸すな。
Don't lend money to a thug like that.
The origin is uncertain. The kanji 雲 (cloud) and 助 (a common suffix for male names or helpers) may have been used phonetically or as a nickname for wandering palanquin bearers who appeared and disappeared like clouds. The alternative form 蜘蛛助 uses 蜘蛛 (spider) as ateji for くも.