Japanese · Body & Health
頭
atama
Head
Beginnernoun
Definition
The upper part of the body. Used in phrases like 頭が痛い (atama ga itai, I have a headache) and 頭がいい (atama ga ii, smart/intelligent).
Example
頭が痛いので、薬を飲みました。
My head hurt so I took medicine.
Etymology
The word '頭' (atama) is of native Japanese origin, sharing similarities with terms in other languages referring to the head. Its usage has remained stable across centuries.
How & Where It’s Used
'頭' (atama) is common in both formal and informal contexts, frequently found in medical terminology as well as everyday conversations without regional variations.
Literary Heritage
References to '頭' can be found in various texts, often used metaphorically for intelligence or leadership, but lacks notable specific literary references.