Dono

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Dono (Kanji: 殿) is an honorific in the Japanese language, rarely heard in current conversation. It is more common to early-period films or anime. Modern usage is limited to formal writings. Dono, as with other Japanese honorifics, is suffixed to the end of the name, such as "Tenchi-dono." Dono is a term of great respect and reverence.

The word dono originally meant the residence of the aristocracy. It's often translated as "Lord" or "Lady" in English subtitles, though noble status is not necessarily implied; it is more akin to general terms such as "milord" or French "monseigneur". Dono is similar to "sama," but the latter is less formal and often carries undertones of personal affection.