noun
wife of a shogun or highest-ranking nobleman
Historical title for the principal wife of a shogun or a top-ranking court noble. Used primarily in pre-modern contexts.
御台所は大奥で最も高い地位にあった。
The Midaidokoro held the highest position in the Ōoku.
From 御 (honorific prefix) + 台所 (kitchen), originally referring to the kitchen of a noble household, later extended to the lady who supervised it, and eventually to the wife of a shogun or high noble.