Genro Obs. exc. Hist.
(ˈgɛnrəʊ)
[Jap., = principal elders, f. gen root + ro old.]
The ‘elder statesmen’ of Japan, a former body of retired statesmen who were at times informally consulted by the emperor. Also, a member of this body.
| 1876 E. M. Satow tr. Shôzan Yashi's Kinsé Shiriaku i. 10 He was generally nick-named ‘the swaggering Chief Minister’ (Bakko Genrô). 1880 E. J. Reed Japan I. 364 The second of the governing bodies of the state is the Genro-In (house of seniors), or senate. 1921, etc. [see elder statesman (elder a. 1 c)]. |