Shikoro is a term that has multiple meanings and uses depending on the context. In Japanese culture, it is commonly associated with traditional armor and hairstyles. The term Shikoro refers to the neck guard or collar of a suit of armor worn by samurai warriors during the feudal period in Japan. The Shikoro was made up of small, interlocking metal plates that were designed to protect the neck and shoulders of the wearer. These plates were often decorated with intricate designs and patterns, and were colored in shades of gold or silver. The use of Shikoro added a sense of strength and protection to the armor, making the wearer appear more imposing and powerful. In addition to its association with armor, Shikoro is also used to describe a type of traditional Japanese hairstyle. This hairstyle features a topknot that is positioned at the back of the head and is often adorned with decorative hairpins or ornaments. The hairstyle was popular among samurai warriors and was considered a symbol of their status and power. The term Shikoro has also been used in the context of Japanese theater, specifically in reference to the neck padding worn by actors in kabuki and noh performances. This padding, which is also called Shikoro, is designed to protect the neck and shoulders of the actor while also providing support for the heavy headpieces worn during the performances. In summary, Shikoro is a term that has multiple meanings and uses in Japanese culture, including its association with traditional armor, hairstyles, and theater. The use of Shikoro adds a sense of strength and protection to the object or person it is associated with, making them appear more imposing and powerful.
Shikoro, armor, hairstyle, samurai, kabuki, noh, neck guard, collar, traditional, decoration
The evolution of the term “Shikoro” is one of the great mysteries of etymology. It comes from the Japanese language and is used as an honorific term similar to the English term “sir”. It is believed to have been derived from the combination of the words “shi”, meaning “to do”, and “koro”, meaning “we.” This suggests that it may have originally been used to show respect in a hierarchical relationship, such as between a superior and a subordinate. In its contemporary usage, it is no longer a term of respect but is used in a more casual and informal manner. Morphologically, the prefix “shi” changes the meaning of the word “koro” from a collective term to an individual term, such as a single person. Pragmatically, the term conveys both politeness and respect, which is why it still remains in use today.
Etymology, Morphology, Pragmatics, Japanese, Honorific, Shi, Koro.
Classifying Shikoro as a part of speech is complicated, as the word has no English translation. However, it could be considered to be a noun given that it is often used to refer to a specific thing, such as a type of hairstyle. Synonyms for the word could include tailed style, top knot, and ornamented hair. Antonyms could be bald or plain. Cognates could include joruri, shime, and shimada. Variants of the word include sakko and sakkow.
Etymology, morphology, historical linguistics, hairstyle, hair ornamentation.
Shikoro is an image composition technique used in anime, comics and manga for drawing character neck armor. It is generally composed of several small, interlocking metal plates that are often colored in shades of gold or silver. These plates are separated by thin gaps, giving the armor an intricate, detailed look. The use of Shikoro adds a sense of protection and strength to the character, making them appear more powerful and imposing.
Anime, comics, manga, Shikoro, character neck armor, image composition techniques, metal plates, gold, silver, intricate details, protection, strength.
CITATION : "Taro Yamada. 'Shikoro.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=178434 (Accessed on July 19, 2025)"
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