botan

Botan is a term of Japanese origin that can refer to several different things depending on how it is written or used. When written as 牡丹, botan denotes the peony, a large ornamental flowering plant valued for its showy blossoms. In Japan and East Asia, the peony is a traditional symbol associated with wealth, honor, and prosperity, and it frequently appears in art, literature, and garden design. The word botan is also encountered as a given name in fiction and occasionally in real life, often drawing on the flower’s auspicious associations.

When written in katakana as ボタン, botan represents the common noun “button,” such as those used on garments or electronic devices. This reading is a standard part of everyday Japanese vocabulary and appears in many compound terms and brand names.

In popular culture, Botan is the name of a character in the Dragon Ball franchise. She is a pink-haired young woman who serves as the guide to the afterlife and the ferryman’s assistant, working under the ruler King Yemma (Enma). She first appears in the manga and anime’s early arcs and remains a recurring supporting character, known for her cheerful demeanor and role in transporting souls between worlds.

The dual readings of botan illustrate how a single romanization can correspond to different Japanese words and meanings, depending on the kanji or script used. Botan can thus refer to a flower, a button, a person’s name, or a fictional character, among other uses.