Translation and Meaning of: 干し物 - hoshimono

The expression 「干し物」 (hoshimono) is a combination of the kanji 「干し」, which comes from the verb 「干す」 (hosu), meaning "to dry" or "to dehydrate", and 「物」 (mono), which means "thing" or "object". Together, they form a term that refers to dry or dehydrated objects or foods. In Japanese culture, drying food is an ancient practice, an essential part of the preservation process, especially in times when refrigeration was not widely available.

Since ancient times, drying has been a prevalent technique for preserving food, especially fish and vegetables. Products like dried fish, known as 「干物」 (himono), or dehydrated seaweed are part of traditional Japanese cuisine. This preservation method ensures that food can be stored for longer periods and transported without significant spoilage.

The importance of 「干し物」 in Japanese culture is not limited to the culinary context. The drying technique is used in various aspects of daily Japanese life, including drying clothes outdoors, a common practice in regions with strong sunlight. Moreover, it is interesting to observe how Japanese culture values simplicity and naturalness, which makes the drying process appreciated not only for its functionality but also for its aesthetic and sustainable contribution.

Variations and Common Types of 「干し物」

• Fish and Seafood: Products like dried sardines and dehydrated squid.
• Vegetais: Including dried shiitake mushrooms, frequently used in soups and broths.
• FrutasDried persimmons, which are valued for their natural sweetness.
• Marine AlgaeAn essential component in soups and stews.

The term 「干し物」 reflects the deep connection of Japanese culture with traditional methods of preservation and sustainability. The expression not only refers to culinary aspects but also serves as a constant reminder of the practices that shape daily life in Japan, keeping alive customs and traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 干し (hoshi) - Dry, dehydrated
• 乾物 (kanbutsu) - Dry foods, dehydrated products
• 乾燥物 (kansōbutsu) - Dry objects, dehydrated materials
• 乾し物 (hoshimono) - Dry items, specifically dehydrated foods
• ほしもの (hoshimono) - Dry objects, or things that have been dried

干し物

Romaji: hoshimono
Kana: ほしもの
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Dry wash (clothes)

Meaning in English: dried washing (clothes)

Definition: Dry food, fabrics, etc. in sunlight or in the wind.

Example Sentences - (干し物) hoshimono

See below some example sentences:

干し物を外に干しています。

Hoshimono wo soto ni hoshite imasu

I'm hanging my clothes to dry outside.

Dry food is dry outside.

• 干し物 - clothes hanging to dry
• を - object particle
• 外に - fora
• 干しています - hanging to dry