noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
person who clears the way; outrider; forerunner
Refers to a person who goes ahead of a procession or important figure to clear the path, literally or figuratively. Can also be used metaphorically for a harbinger or precursor.
大名行列の露払いが、道行く人に道を空けるよう命じた。
The outrider of the daimyo's procession ordered passersby to clear the way.
His new work will likely be a forerunner of a new era.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
opening performer; warm-up act
Used in entertainment contexts for a performer or act that appears first to warm up the audience before the main event.
コンサートの露払いとして、新人バンドが一曲演奏した。
As the opening act of the concert, a new band performed one song.
noun
sumo wrestler who leads a yokozuna at his ring-entering ceremony
Specific sumo term: the wrestler who walks ahead of a yokozuna during the dohyō-iri (ring-entering ceremony), often holding a sword.
横綱の土俵入りでは、露払いが先頭を歩く。
During the yokozuna's ring-entering ceremony, the dew-sweeper walks at the front.