Onyomi: ドウ · Kunyomi: - · Meanings: hall, public chamber
Kanji for hall, public chamber
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The kanji 堂 combines the elements for “earth” (土) and “building” (尚), forming the image of a grand structure standing firmly on the ground. In ancient times, 堂 referred to large ceremonial halls or temple buildings where important gatherings, prayers, and rituals took place. It represents dignity, formality, and sacred space — a place where people come together with respect and purpose.
A large building standing on solid ground — 堂 means hall, a grand place for gatherings, worship, or learning.
Picture a great hall built firmly on the earth, filled with voices and light — that’s 堂, the kanji for a grand hall or temple.
| Word | Reading | Meaning | Meta |
|---|---|---|---|
| 堂 | どう | temple, shrine, chapel | common Noun, Noun, used as a suffix |
| 堂々 | どうどう | magnificent, grand, impressive, dignified, majestic, imposing, stately | common JLPT-N1 'taru' adjective, Adverb taking the 'to' particle |
| 堂々巡り | どうどうめぐり | going around in circles | Noun, Suru verb, Intransitive verb |
| 堂にいる | どうにいる | to become an expert, to be master at | Expressions (phrases, clauses, etc.), Godan verb with 'ru' ending |
| 堂塔 | どうとう | temple, temple buildings | Noun |
| 堂塔伽藍 | どうとうがらん | religious buildings (temples, shrines, pagodas, etc.) | Noun |
| 堂守 | どうもり | temple keeper | Noun |
| 堂宇 | どうう | edifice, temple, hall | Noun |
| 堂上 | どうじょう | on the roof, court nobles | Noun |
| 堂奥 | どうおう | secret knowledge, interior of a temple | Noun |