Meiji

[ mey-jee ]

noun

, Japanese History.

1. the designation of the period of the reign of Emperor Mutsuhito from 1868 to 1912.

Meiji

/ ˈmeɪˈdʒiː /

noun

1. Japanese history the reign of Emperor Mutsuhito (1867–1912), during which Japan began a rapid process of Westernization, industrialization, and expansion in foreign affairs
2. Meiji18521912MJapanesePOLITICS: hereditary ruler the throne name of Mutsuhito (ˌmuːtsʊˈhiːtəʊ). 1852–1912, emperor of Japan (1867–1912)

Word History and Origins

Origin of Meiji¹

1870–75; < Japanese meiji, earlier meidi enlightened peace < Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese míng bright + zhì pacify

Word History and Origins

Origin of Meiji¹

Japanese, from Chinese ming enlightened + dji government

Example Sentences

In Japan, for example, Colley does not much highlight the rising demands from below for more rights, which persuaded the Meiji oligarchs to consolidate imperial rule through a constitution.

From Washington Post

One was a 19-year-old student at Meiji University and the other a 28-year old man in Fukuoka Prefecture.

From The Daily Beast

It may be interesting to say a word here about some of the distinguished foreigners who visited Japan during the Meiji era.

From Project Gutenberg

The 11th of February in the 22d year of Meiji saw the promulgation of the imperial Constitution.

From Project Gutenberg

It was, however, only after the inauguration of the Meiji era that education became thorough and universal.

From Project Gutenberg

Hearn's marriage, as his widow told us, took place early in the year of 1891, "23rd of Meiji."

From Project Gutenberg

A Buddhist land, its system of government is very similar to that of Japan before the Meiji, the revolution of 1868.

From Project Gutenberg