The name Samurai is of Japanese origin and is gender-neutral. It means "Military Warrior In Feudal Japan". Samurai, also known as bushi, were members of the warrior class in Japan, playing a significant political role from the late 12th century until their abolition in the late 1870s during the Meiji era. They were originally provincial warriors who served the kuge and imperial court. Samurai were known for their skills in warfare and loyalty to their lords. The term bushi is interchangeable with buke, which means "military family", and could refer to the whole class of professional warriors. The history of samurai is deeply intertwined with the political and social changes in Japan, making it a name that symbolizes honor, loyalty, and the warrior spirit.