
Kimi (kabane)

 was an ancient Japanese hereditary title denoting rank and political standing (a "kabane") that was reserved for certain members of the "Tomo no Miyatsuko" clans, which were clans associated with particular occupations. They became a hereditary title passed down the generations. The "kimi" rank was lower than the "muraji" and "omi" ranks in political power and standing during much of the Kofun period and Asuka period which are collectively grouped as the Yamato period.
"Kimi" literally means "Lord" (of a local area). For example in the name, Kamitsukeno no Kimi Wakako, "Kamitsukeno no kimi" means "Lord of Kamitsukeno" and Wakako is his personal name. Sometimes the character (公) is used in place of (君).