折り詰め

• Reading: おりづめ
• Romaji: orizume
• Kanji breakdown: 折 (ori) — folding, box; 詰め (zume/tsume) — packed, filled
• Pronunciation: /o.ɾi.d͡zɯ.me/

Meaning

Food neatly packed in a small wooden or lacquered box; a traditional boxed meal; the container itself.

A noun referring to carefully arranged food — typically rice and side dishes — in a small box (折箱), traditionally wooden. Commonly prepared for ceremonies, formal gatherings, or as gifts. The word emphasises elegant presentation and formality, distinguishing it from everyday bento.

Examples

1. 法事の後、親族に折り詰めを配るのが慣わしだった。 It was customary to distribute boxed meals to relatives after a memorial service.
2. 料亭が手がけた折り詰めは見た目も美しく、贈り物にも喜ばれる。 The boxed meals prepared by the traditional restaurant are beautiful to look at and make a welcome gift.
3. 駅弁の折り詰めを膝に乗せながら、車窓の景色を楽しんだ。 With a station bento box resting on my lap, I enjoyed the view passing by the train window.

Usage Guide

Context: food, ceremonies, gifting, travel

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From 折 (ori, folded box) and 詰め (zume, packed). The folded wooden box technique originated as a portable, elegant vessel for food at ceremonies and outings.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo–Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal