Translation and Meaning of: 灰皿 - haisara

The Japanese word 「灰皿」 (haisara) is a combination of the kanji 「灰」, which means "ash", and 「皿」, which means "plate" or "container". Together, they literally translate to "ash plate", which is what we call "ashtray" in Portuguese. This word is used to describe a container where ashes and ends of cigarettes or cigars are deposited.

"灰" (hai) is a kanji that represents ashes, dust, or any residue of combustion. This kanji is used in several words related to burning or what remains after a fire, such as "灰燼" (haijin), which means "ashes and embers." The kanji "皿" (sara), on the other hand, is used to indicate objects made of china or ceramics, such as plates and bowls, being a fundamental item in traditional meals.

Ashtrays, or 「灰皿」, are objects commonly seen in spaces where smoking is prevalent, such as restaurants, bars, and designated smoking areas in outdoor environments. Despite stricter anti-smoking policies in many countries, which have reduced the use of ashtrays in public places, they still play an essential role in social contexts where smoking is allowed. In the past, ashtrays were commonly made from materials such as ceramics, metal, or glass, and some were elaborately decorated, reflecting the sociocultural importance of the act of smoking.

Curiosities about 「灰皿」

• Ceramic ashtrays were often present at tea ceremonies, indicative of the social role that smoking once had.
• With the popularization of electronic cigarettes, the traditional form of the ashtray has evolved, but the term 「灰皿」 is still widely recognized and used.
• In Japanese pop culture, ashtrays can be seen as decorative or collectible items, featuring unique and vintage designs.

In summary, 「灰皿」 (haisara) carries more than the simple function of collecting ashes and cigarette butts; it reflects the cultural influence of tobacco throughout history and creates an interesting visual space in both traditional and modern environments. This term captures cultural nuances and social practices that have evolved over time, showing the adaptation of language and objects to contemporary social habits.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 灰受け (Haiuke) - Ashtray, commonly used to collect the ashes from a cigarette.
• 灰入れ (Haiire) - A type of container or box for placing ashes, similar to 灰受け.
• 煙草入れ (Tabakoire) - Box or pocket to store cigarettes.
• 煙草皿 (Tabakosara) - Tray or dish for holding cigarettes or ashes, usually larger than an ashtray.
• タバコ皿 (Tabakosara) - Tray or ashtray for cigarettes; this term is a variation in katakana and has the same meaning as 煙草皿.
• タバコ入れ (Tabakoire) - The term in katakana for a box or pocket to store cigarettes, similar to 煙草入れ, is タバコケース.

灰皿

Romaji: haisara
Kana: はいさら
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1, jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: cinzeiro

Meaning in English: ashtray

Definition: A container to store cigarette butts and ashes.