消しゴム
keshigomu[ke̞ɕiɡo̞mɯ̟]
The Japanese word for eraser is 消しゴム (keshigomu).
消しゴム is the most common word for an eraser in Japanese, referring to an object used to remove writing or drawings.
Meaning: thing used to erase something written or drawn (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Kansai region, the term gum is sometimes used instead of keshigomu.
How do you pronounce it?
keshigomu
Did you know?
- The term 消しゴム is often shortened or modified in slang, but you should avoid using the word ゴム alone to refer to an eraser. In many contexts, the word ゴム by itself can be used as a slang term for 'condom', which could lead to an embarrassing misunderstanding.
- In Japan, there is a massive culture of 'miniature erasers' that are shaped like incredibly realistic food items, such as sushi or ramen. These are often used as collectors' items or charms rather than for actual erasing.
- The word 消しゴム is a hybrid of a Japanese verb stem and a loanword from Dutch. While the English 'rubber' or 'eraser' is common, the Japanese term relies on the Dutch word ゴム, which entered the language via trade.
Examples in context
- 消しゴム返してよ。Give me back my eraser.This sentence shows how to ask for an eraser to be returned.Tatoeba #10218808 by small_snow, translation #9192626 by DJ_Saidez
- 消しゴム借りていい？May I borrow your eraser?This sentence is useful for asking to borrow an eraser.Tatoeba #10100252 by small_snow, translation #268144 by CK
- 消しゴム貸してくれる？Can you lend me your eraser?Tatoeba #10575405 by bunbuku, translation #10575258 by sundown
- 私は鉛筆と消しゴムを持っています。I have a pencil and an eraser.
- このページの間違いを訂正するために消しゴムが必要です。I need an eraser to correct the mistakes on this page.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Misaki and Ren are studying together in a library.
- 美咲 Misaki消しゴム持ってる？Keshigomu motteru?Do you have an eraser?
- 蓮 Renうん、使っていいよ。Un, tsukatte ii yo.Yeah, you can use mine.
- 美咲 Misakiありがとう。助かる！Arigatou. Tasukaru!Thanks. That helps!
- 蓮 Renいいえ、気にしないで。Iie, kinishinaide.No problem, don't worry about it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “eraser” translations and entries 消しゴム, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 消しゴム, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
