Definitions

1. noun

A unit of measurement in Japan, equivalent to about 180 liters of rice, used to measure a samurai’s stipend

“The samurai’s annual stipend was 10 koku, a significant amount at the time.”

2. noun

A unit of measurement in Japan, equivalent to about 150 kilograms of rice, used to measure a merchant’s tax or toll

“The merchant paid a tax of 5 koku on every shipment of goods.”

3. noun

A measure of the amount of rice or grain given to a person or family as part of their stipend or income

“The peasant’s koku was used to pay for his taxes and living expenses.”