# geisha

/ˈɡeɪʃə/ (US) · /dʒˈeɪʃɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/geisha
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a highly trained Japanese entertainer who performs traditional arts like music, dance, and tea ceremonies. They are famous for wearing beautiful silk kimonos and special white makeup.

For teachers: a highly skilled Japanese entertainer who performs traditional arts such as music, dance, and tea ceremonies. Historically associated with the geiko and maiko traditions of Kyoto, the term is often used in English to refer to the entire profession.

## Examples

- The geisha played the shamisen for the guests.
- During the festival, a geisha performed a traditional dance that told the story of a famous samurai.
- While the image of the geisha is often romanticised in Western media, the reality of the profession involves years of rigorous training in multiple disciplines, including calligraphy and classical Japanese poetry.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.