VocabJLPT N1
waka
Noun

Definitions

  1. 1. waka
  2. 2. classic Japanese poem, esp. a tanka, often 31 morae
A traditional form of Japanese poetry with a 31-syllable structure arranged in a 5-7-5-7-7 pattern. It has a long history going back over a thousand years and was especially prominent among the court nobility of ancient Japan.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

"This waka is so heavy with autumn loneliness!" my friend cried out.

Sentence 2

Did you write a waka on that strip? Your handwriting is surprisingly good.

Sentence 3

To state the conclusion first — quoting waka is an effective approach.

Sentence 4

"Teach that waka to me too!" my little sister begged.

Sentence 5

Wow, I can't get this one line of waka out of my head!