Translation and Meaning of: 布団 - futon

The word 「布団」 (futon) is used to describe a traditional Japanese bedding. Etymologically, 「布団」 is a combination of 「布」(nuno), which means "fabric" or "cloth," and 「団」(ton), which refers to "group" or "collective." The joining of these words suggests the idea of padded fabric, which is essentially what a Japanese futon represents.

In practice, a futon is a set of items that includes both the 「敷布団」 (shikibuton), the mattress placed on the floor, and the 「掛布団」 (kakebuton), the blanket used for warmth. Traditionally, these are placed directly on the tatami, the straw floor covering found inside Japanese homes. This reflects the minimalist and flexible lifestyle present in Japanese culture, where spaces are often used in multifunctional ways.

The origin of futons dates back to the Muromachi period, when they began to be used by the higher classes of Japanese society. Over time, this practice spread among the people, becoming an important part of daily life in Japan. Due to its practicality and comfort, the futon has also spread globally, being adapted and used in various countries. Its ease of storage is one of the reasons for its appeal, as it can be easily stored during the day to free up space.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 寝具 (shingu) - Set of items used for sleeping, such as mattresses and blankets.
• 掛け布団 (kakebuton) - Duvet or blanket used to cover the body while sleeping.
• 敷き布団 (shikibuton) - Futon that is placed directly on the floor or the bed base.
• 羽毛布団 (umu buton) - Duvet made of feathers or down, known for its lightness and warmth.
• 毛布 (moufu) - A type of blanket made of wool or synthetic material, used for warmth during sleep.
• 枕 (makura) - Pillow used to support the head during sleep.
• 枕元 (makuramoto) - Area or space around the pillow, often where objects like alarm clocks or water are placed.
• 枕頭 (makuradō) - Alternative translation for pillow (枕), usually used in literary or formal contexts.

布団

Romaji: futon
Kana: ふとん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: Bedding (estilo japonês); futon

Meaning in English: bedding (Japanese style);futon

Definition: A type of bedding consisting of a fabric sheet, bedspread, and pillow.

Example Sentences - (布団) futon

See below some example sentences:

布団で寝るのが好きです。

Futon de neru no ga suki desu

I like to sleep in a futon.

• 布団 (futon) - a type of traditional Japanese mattress
• で (de) - a particle that indicates the medium or place where something happens
• 寝る (neru) - verb meaning "to sleep"
• のが (noga) - a particle indicating someone's preference or habit
• 好き (suki) - adjetivo que significa "gostar de"
• です (desu) - linking verb indicating formality or courtesy in communication