If you were to look up the meaning of ‘Kaichou’ on the internet, you’d get A LOT of different meanings, and I meant A LOT. This is what makes it a little confusing as to where and how to use this famous Japanese word.
But obviously, with so many possible results, it becomes pretty difficult to properly define the word and use it properly so that one may not appear clueless or, more importantly, not offend someone.
“Kaichou” is a very commonly used term in the beautiful country of Japan. Who coined the term and the proper history is still unknown, but its history can be traced back to ancient Japan.
Kaichou – Origin and Backstory
To trace back its origin, Kaichou, also called Kaichō or Kaicho, is a Japanese word, literally meaning “the opening of the curtain.” The most ancient use of the word used to be in the Edo period in Japan. It was used to refer to the public execution of religion-related artifacts, especially from Buddhist monasteries and temples.
These artifacts usually were relics or statues that would typically not be exposed to the public. They used to be showcased in public fairs, outdoor activities, trade fairs, etc. This was done in order to preserve the sacredness of the relics by not keeping them in the public eye for very long. Secondly, it acted as a fundraiser for many Buddhist temples.
Kaichou – Present Meaning
If we are to talk about the usage of the word today, it is used for ‘president of the school student council.’ It may also be used to identify the President of any club or even a company. What it cannot be used to refer to, however, is the country’s President. The President of the country translates into ‘daitouryou,’ which has a more formal approach.
One must note that ‘Kaichou’ is significantly different from other words that are wrongly used synonymously with it. This will include words like ‘senchou’ (captain of a ship), ‘taicho’ (captain of a troop), and ‘buchou’ (manager). It can be simply said that the word ‘Kaichou’ is used to address the topmost position in a firm. But while it is a rather formal term, it may not be used to manage the President or head of a country.
Examples Of The World From the Anime World
Being a weeb, the best way I can use to explain this word is by the reference to manga and anime. So, here are some Anime references to the word ‘Kaichou’:
- Kaichou wa Maid-Sama
The story of Kaichou wa maid Sama centers around a girl named Misaki Ayuzawa, who was announced to be the first female school student council president ever. Heavily devoted to her school and responsibilities, she has no time to spare at hand. She is also very strict towards the boys in the school, earning her the title of ‘Demon President.’
She crosses paths with the notorious, popular ‘bad boy’ of the school named Takumi Usui, who torments her every chance he gets. But she has a secret, and she must hide it from everyone to maintain her dignity. Her secret- The President works in a maid cafe. The secret itself is the very name of the series.
- Kaguya Sama-Love is War
One of my personal favorites. Kaguya Sama- Love is war is a romance anime. The story involves the prestigious ‘Shuchiin Academy’ and its student council consisting of the President- Miyuki Shirogane, the vice president named, Shinomiya Kaguya, Secretary-Chika Fujiwara, and the accountant- Ishigami.
“Love is War” is the name given to the situation between Shirogane and Kaguya and the ultimate battle of ‘whose gonna confess feeling first.’ Perhaps one of the most iconic lines in the show is Kaguya referring to Shirogane as ‘Kaichou,’ which translates to the school president.
I believe now it is pretty clear as to what Kaichou means. To summarize, the word “Kaichou” first appeared in the older Edo period in Japan, where it was referred to as a sacred ritual. Later, it was morphed to assign the position of ‘president’ in a club or school or a reputed institution but not a country.
ALSO READ: Dattebayo Meaning In English: Naruto’s Bizarre Catchphrase Explained!
