Gurren Lagann is one of the iconic shows of the 2000s, and its title is quite a unique one. For those who don’t speak Japanese, the meaning of Tengen Toppa in the full Gurren Lagann title may be a mystery.
Unlike some shows that just make up names for their titles, this anime’s title has an actual meaning, and it’s a perfect fit for the show’s memorable story and inspiring themes.
Spoiler Warning: There are Gurren Lagann spoilers in this article.
Gurren Lagann: An Important Name in the Story
The Gurren Lagann mecha anime aired in the late 2000s, and it quickly became one of the decade’s most celebrated shows thanks to its combination of spectacular animation and inspiring themes.
Aside from the story and the characters, the anime’s complete title, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, is catchy and memorable. For those who understand Japanese, all of these words have meanings.
In the story, Gurren Lagann is the name of the mecha that Simon pilots in the series.
This mecha’s initial form is a combination of two Gunmen mechs named Gurren and Lagann, respectively.
First is Lagann, the mecha that Simon finds in the first episode. This mecha serves as the head of the signature combined form. In Japanese, Lagann means “enveloping face”, which perfectly fits this mecha.
Meanwhile, Gurren is the modified Gunzar that’s piloted by Kamina. When combined with Lagann, it serves as the mecha’s body.
Gurren means “crimson lotus,” another fitting name considering its striking red hue.
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Tengen Toppa Meaning: What Gurren Lagann’s Full Title Means
As for the first half of the show’s title, the meaning of Tengen Toppa in Japanese is “to pierce the heavens.” Thus, the series title can be translated into English as “Heavenly-Piercing Gurren Lagann.”
Of course, that’s not what international fans call the anime, as the series uses its original Japanese title even outside of Japan. This makes sense considering the title is also the name of a mecha.
In the story’s finale, Simon’s mecha transforms into Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, the mecha’s penultimate form that was pivotal in the fight against Antispiral.
This isn’t the true final form though, as the “Super” version is also formed with a ridiculous size – larger than even the observable universe.
Even though it’s tough to fathom its size, the mecha’s final form was a sight to behold for viewers, making the series’ climactic fight all the more memorable.
After the massive fight, the series features a wedding scene that continues to make fans cry.
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