tengu
Tengu (noun) means a supernatural creature from Japanese folklore, usually shown as a bird-like or long-nosed figure. Example: “The shrine sold small wooden masks shaped like a tengu.”
How to use tengu
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA mythical Japanese spirit, often pictured with a long nose or beak, associated with mountains and mischief.
Word forms
tengus plural, tengu plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The shrine sold small wooden masks shaped like a _____.
Etymology
Borrowed from Japanese tengu, written with characters meaning "heavenly dog."
Frequently asked questions
What does “tengu” mean?
The word “tengu” means a supernatural creature from Japanese folklore, usually shown as a bird-like or long-nosed figure. In plain terms, a mythical Japanese spirit, often pictured with a long nose or beak, associated with mountains and mischief.
How do you use “tengu” in a sentence?
Here is “tengu” used in a sentence: “The shrine sold small wooden masks shaped like a tengu.”
What part of speech is “tengu”?
“Tengu” is a noun.
Where does the word “tengu” come from?
The word “tengu” comes from Japanese. Borrowed from Japanese tengu, written with characters meaning "heavenly dog.".
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