脇

• Reading: わき
• Romaji: waki
• Kanji breakdown: 脇 (waki) — side, armpit, flank
• Pronunciation: /wa.ki/

Meaning

Side; armpit; flank. The area beside something or the underarm area.

A noun with both anatomical and spatial meanings. Anatomically refers to the armpit area. Spatially means 'the side' or 'beside,' as in 道の脇 (side of the road). Also used in expressions like 脇役 (supporting role) and 脇道 (side road). The form 脇 is more common than the alternative 腋.

Examples

1. 道の脇に花が咲いていた。 Flowers were blooming on the side of the road.
2. 脇に荷物を抱えて走った。 I ran with luggage tucked under my arm.
3. あの俳優は脇役だけど演技がうまい。 That actor is in a supporting role, but his acting is great.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, directions, entertainment

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 脇 combines 月 (flesh/body radical) and 劦 (combined effort), originally referring to the side of the body where the arm meets the torso.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal