Translation and Meaning of: 床屋 - tokoya

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about Japanese culture, you may have come across the word 床屋 (とこや). But what does it mean exactly? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and everyday use of this word, along with cultural curiosities that may help you memorize it. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for students and enthusiasts of the Japanese language.

Meaning and translation of 床屋 (とこや)

The word 床屋 (とこや) refers to a "barber" or "barbershop" in Japanese. It is a common term in everyday life, especially when someone needs a haircut or a shave. Although there are other words to refer to beauty salons, such as 美容院 (びよういん), which is more commonly used for hairdressers who primarily serve women, 床屋 has a more traditional and masculine connotation.

It is worth noting that, although 床屋 is widely understood throughout Japan, some modern barbershops may use more neutral terms such as ヘアサロン (hair salon), especially in urban areas. Still, if you are in Japan and want a more classic haircut, looking for a 床屋 is a good choice.

Origin and etymology of the word 床屋

The origin of 床屋 dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868), when barbers not only cut hair but also performed services such as tooth extraction and minor surgeries. The kanji 床 (とこ) means "floor" or "base," while 屋 (や) indicates "shop" or "establishment." Together, they form the idea of a place where services were provided on the floor or in a simple space.

Interestingly, in the past, barbers used to wear a strip of white cloth as a symbol of their profession, something that can still be seen in some traditional barbershops today. This historical image helps to understand why 床屋 carries a more old-fashioned and nostalgic tone for many Japanese people.

Cultural usage and frequency in modern Japan

In contemporary Japan, 床屋 is still a widely used term, especially by older men or in smaller cities, where traditional barbershops remain popular. Many of them maintain a retro style, with vintage chairs and personalized service, which contrasts with the modern salons of large chains.

One tip for memorizing this word is to associate the kanji 屋 (や) with other establishments, such as 本屋 (ほんや - bookstore) or 魚屋 (さかなや - fish market). This pattern helps to recognize that 床屋 is a specific commercial or service location. Furthermore, if you have watched anime or Japanese dramas, you might have seen characters going to a 床屋 in everyday scenes.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 理髪店 (Rihatsuten) - Barbershop, generally focused on men's haircuts.
• 散髪屋 (Sampatsuya) - Establishment for haircuts, used in more informal contexts.
• 美容院 (Biyouin) - Beauty salon, which offers hair cutting and aesthetic care services, usually aimed at a female audience.

床屋

Romaji: tokoya
Kana: とこや
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4, jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: barber

Meaning in English: barber

Definition: Artisans and shops that cut men's hair.