also: めんもく · めいぼく
noun
face; honor; reputation; dignity
Refers to one's social standing, honor, or the respect one receives from others. Often used in expressions like 面目を保つ (to save face) or 面目が立たない (to lose face).
彼は失敗して面目を失った。
He lost face because of his failure.
この結果で、チームの面目は保たれた。
With this result, the team's honor was preserved.
noun
A less common, somewhat literary use referring to outward appearance or how something looks. Often seen in set phrases like 面目を一新する (to take on a completely new look).
改装して店の面目が一新した。
The store's appearance was completely renewed after renovation.