1. Circle: This is the most common meaning of "maru" and is often used as a suffix to indicate roundness. For example, "nigiri-maru" means "round rice ball."
2. Round: This is another common meaning of "maru" and can be used as a synonym for "circle." For example, "maru-me" means "round eyes."
3. Full: This meaning is less common but can be used to describe something that is complete or full. For example, "maru-ban" means "full circle."
4. Surname: Maru is also a surname in Japan.
5. Maru (マル): Sometimes "maru" (マル) is written in katakana and refers to a symbol that resembles a circle. This symbol is used in various ways, such as:
* Marking something as correct: Similar to a checkmark.
* Representing a person or object: In diagrams or maps.
* As a substitute for a name: In informal settings or situations where privacy is desired.
To understand the meaning of "maru" in a specific context, it's important to consider the surrounding words and the overall sentence structure.
For example:
* "Maru-mago" means "grandchild." Here, "maru" is part of a compound word and does not have its own independent meaning.
* "Kimi wa maru-i shiro wo motteiru" means "You have a round white house." Here, "maru" means "round" and modifies the noun "shiro" (house).
If you provide more context, I can give you a more precise meaning of "maru."