Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

shogun

noun
/ˈʃəʊɡən/
Definition
A military leader in Japan who was the supreme commander of the samurai and had significant power over the country, often ruling on behalf of the emperor.
Examples
  • The shogun governed Japan for centuries, establishing a complex feudal system.
  • Many samurai served under a shogun, pledging loyalty and military service.
  • The word ‘shogun’ is derived from a title meaning ‘general’.
Meaning
The term ‘shogun’ implies a ruler with military authority, often seen as the most powerful figure in Japanese history during the feudal period.
Synonyms
  • military leader
  • general
  • commander