Early 18th century; earliest use found in John Scheuchzer (1702–1729), physician and naturalist. From Japanese miya, lit. ‘exalted house’ from mi- + ya house. Compare Manchu miyoo shrine.
Definition of miya in US English:
miya
nounˈmiːə
Shinto
A Japanese Shinto shrine.
Origin
Early 18th century; earliest use found in John Scheuchzer (1702–1729), physician and naturalist. From Japanese miya, lit. ‘exalted house’ from mi- + ya house. Compare Manchu miyoo shrine.