What does なり mean?
なり is a Japanese particle meaning “or something; for instance ... (though there are other suitable options)” in English. It can also be translated as “as soon as, while still” depending on context. It is written as なり in hiragana, and nari in romaji. This word is part of JLPT N3 vocabulary.
Example sentences
あらゆる国の歴史は男なり女なりの心の中に始まる。
The history of every country begins in the heart of a man or a woman.
しかし城にたどりつくなり、近衛兵を率いた人によって、わたしはこの牢獄に勾引されてしまった。
However, when I finally reached the castle I was thrown into this prison by the commander of the imperial guard.
彼は一週間前に家を出たなり帰ってこない。
He hasn't come home since he left last week.