Wa

/wɑː/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A term used in some contexts to represent a unit of measure or a type of system in Japanese culture.

In Japanese tea ceremonies, achieving a state of 'wa' is essential for harmony.

In some dialects, a casual term for 'what', often used in informal speech.

Wa, what are you doing later?

particle

A topic marker in the Japanese language, indicating the topic of a sentence.

Watashi wa gakusei desu. (I am a student.)

Used in informal contexts to express a sense of vagueness or uncertainty.

Wa, I'm not sure if I can make it to the party.

Japanese, meaning harmony or peace.

wa ga nai

It can't be helped; it is what it is.

wa no koto

Matter of harmony; addressing collective interests.

wa zen

Zen harmony; a state of peacefulness.

wa bicha

A harmonious tea ceremony.

A term used in some Internet communities for 'what's up'

When I logged into the chat, everyone greeted me with 'wa?'

An exclamation of surprise or disbelief.

When she won the lottery, everyone went 'wa!' in excitement.