Translation and Meaning of: 毛糸 - keito

The Japanese word 毛糸 (けいと, keito) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japan. Additionally, we will see practical tips for memorizing it and curiosities that make this word even more fascinating.

If you've ever wondered what 毛糸 means or how to use it correctly in a conversation, this text will help you. Here at Suki Nihongo, we always strive to provide clear and precise explanations about Japanese vocabulary, and 毛糸 is a great example of how an apparently simple word can reveal much about the language and culture.

Meaning and origin of 毛糸

The word 毛糸 is composed of two kanji: 毛 (ke), which means "hair" or "fur," and 糸 (ito), which means "thread" or "string." Together, they form the term that translates to "wool" or "yarn." It is specifically used to refer to wool threads used in knitting, crochet, and other craft activities.

The origin of the word dates back to the period when Japan began to import and use wool on a larger scale, mainly during the Meiji era (1868-1912). Before that, the Japanese primarily used cotton, silk, and hemp fibers. With the opening of the country to the West, wool became more common, and the word 毛糸 started to be widely used.

Everyday and cultural use

In Japan, 毛糸 is a word commonly found in everyday vocabulary, especially among those who practice crafts. During winter, it is common to see people knitting scarves, gloves, and other clothing items with 毛糸. The practice is so popular that there are even specialized cafes where people can knit while enjoying a hot tea.

Culturally, the act of working with 毛糸 is associated with patience and care, important values in Japanese society. Many grandmothers teach their granddaughters to knit, passing down not only the technique but also a moment of connection between generations. Furthermore, handmade products made with 毛糸 are often given as gifts, carrying a special meaning of affection and dedication.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to memorize 毛糸 is to associate the kanjis that make it up with their meaning. 毛 (hair) + 糸 (thread) = wool thread. Mentally visualizing a ball of wool made from animal hair can help fix the word. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences like "この毛糸は柔らかいです" (Kono keito wa yawarakai desu - This wool is soft).

An interesting fact is that, although 毛糸 is the most common term for "yarn" in Japan, in more technical or commercial contexts, the word ウール (ūru), derived from the English "wool," is sometimes used. However, 毛糸 remains the preferred term in everyday and informal situations, demonstrating how the Japanese language balances foreign influences and traditional terms.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 編み糸 (Ami ito) - Knitting yarn
• ウール (Uuru) - Lã
• ヤーン (Yaan) - Wool yarn or yarn in general for knitting
• 編物糸 (Ami mono ito) - Yarn for knitting or crochet projects.
• 編み物用糸 (Ami mono you ito) - Yarn intended for knitting handwork
• 編み針糸 (Ami bari ito) - Yarn for knitting needles
• 編みかぎ針糸 (Ami kagi bari ito) - Yarn for crochet hooks

毛糸

Romaji: keito
Kana: けいと
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: knitting wool

Meaning in English: knitting wool

Definition: A long and thin thread used for knitting, etc.

Example Sentences - (毛糸) keito

See below some example sentences:

毛糸で手袋を編みました。

Keito de tebukuro wo amimashita

I knit mittens from wool yarn.

I knit mittens from wool.

• 毛糸 - Wool thread
• で - particle that indicates the means or instrument used
• 手袋 - gloves
• を - Particle indicating the direct object of the action.
• 編みました - verb "háeru", meaning "to knit", in the affirmative past tense

私は毛糸でセーターを編むのが好きです。

Watashi wa keito de seetaa o amu no ga suki desu

I like to knit sweaters with wool.

I like to knit a sweater with wool.

• 私 - personal pronoun "I"
• は - Topic particle
• 毛糸 - noun "wool"
• で - Instrument particle
• セーター - noun "sweater"
• を - direct object particle
• 編む - verb "to knit"
• の - substantivization particle
• が - subject particle
• 好き - adjective "like"
• です - Verb "to be" in the present tense