タオル

• Reading: タオル
• Romaji: taoru
• Pronunciation: /ta.o.ɾɯ/

Meaning

Towel. A common household item used for drying hands, body, and face.

A loanword from English 'towel,' always written in katakana. In Japan, small hand towels (ハンドタオル) and face towels are everyday essentials. Bath towels (バスタオル) are used at home and at hot springs. Towels are also popular souvenirs and gifts in Japan.

Examples

1. タオルを持ってきてください。 Please bring me a towel.
2. プールにタオルを忘れました。 I left my towel at the pool.
3. このタオルはやわらかいですね。 This towel is so soft, isn't it?

Usage Guide

Context: bathroom, daily life, sports, travel

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Borrowed from English 'towel.' Entered Japanese vocabulary during the Meiji era as Western bathing customs became widespread. Written exclusively in katakana as a foreign loanword.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal