絹

• Reading: きぬ
• Romaji: kinu
• Kanji breakdown: 絹 (ken/kinu) — silk
• Pronunciation: /ki.nɯ/

Meaning

Silk. A smooth, luxurious fabric produced from silkworm cocoons.

Refers to silk as a material, commonly seen in compounds like 絹糸 (silk thread) and 絹豆腐 (silken tofu). Japan has a long history of silk production, particularly in regions like Gunma Prefecture. Silk was historically a major export and remains culturally significant in traditional clothing like kimono.

Examples

1. この着物は絹でできています。 This kimono is made of silk.
2. 絹の手触りはとても柔らかいです。 The texture of silk is very soft.
3. 昔、日本は絹をたくさん輸出していました。 In the past, Japan exported a lot of silk.

Usage Guide

Context: textiles, traditional clothing, materials

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

An ancient Japanese word. The kanji 絹 contains the radical 糸 (ito, thread) indicating its textile nature. Silk production has deep roots in Japanese culture.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal