綿

• Reading: めん
• Romaji: men
• Kanji breakdown: 綿 (men/wata) — cotton
• Pronunciation: /me.n/

Meaning

Cotton. The natural fiber used in textiles and clothing.

A noun referring to the cotton plant, its fibers, or cotton fabric. Read as めん in most compounds: 綿100% (100% cotton), 木綿 (momen, cotton cloth). Also read as わた when referring to raw cotton or cotton batting used in stuffing futons and cushions. A fundamental material in Japanese clothing and bedding.

Examples

1. このシャツは綿でできている。 This shirt is made of cotton.
2. 夏は綿の服が涼しくて気持ちいい。 Cotton clothes are cool and comfortable in summer.
3. 綿のタオルは肌に優しい。 Cotton towels are gentle on the skin.

Usage Guide

Context: clothing, textiles, shopping

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 綿 contains 糸 (thread radical) and 帛 (silk cloth), indicating a textile material. Cotton was introduced to Japan from China and became widely cultivated during the Edo period.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo period

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal