Katakana

(noun)

A Japanese syllabary originating from 800 CE, one component of the Japanese writing system along with hiragana, kanji, and in some cases the Latin script (known as romaji). 

Related Terms

Examples of Katakana in the following topics:

  • Japanese Calligraphy in the Kamakura Period

    • For many years, the most esteemed calligrapher in Japan had been Wang Xizhi, a Chinese calligrapher in the 4th century; however, after the invention of Hiragana and Katakana, the Japanese unique syllabaries, a distinctive Japanese writing system developed, and calligraphers produced styles intrinsic to Japan.