Mikado/mɪˈkɑːdəʊ/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/2Imperial Japan Used to show respect when talking about the Japanese emperor. During Golden Week, the Mikado greets the public. Pro Tip 2/2Historical Usage Historically common, but now 'Emperor' is preferred in contemporary contexts. In old texts, the ruler of Japan was often referred to as the Mikado.