枕
makura[ma̠kɯ̟ɾa̠]
The Japanese word for "pillow" is 枕 (makura).
枕 refers to a soft cushion used to support the head in bed.
Meaning: soft cushion used to support the head in bed (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
makura
Did you know?
- The word 枕詞 (makurakotoba), meaning 'pillow word', refers to a poetic device in ancient Japanese literature used to introduce a specific name or place.
- Historically, Japanese 枕 were often hard wooden blocks or ceramic stands designed to support the neck without flattening elaborate traditional hairstyles.
- In many Japanese homes, you might find a hard wooden or buckwheat-filled pillow rather than the soft, fluffy ones common in the West.
Examples in context
- 枕を下さい。Can I get a pillow?This sentence shows how to request a 枕.Tatoeba #81216 by bunbuku, translation #322499 by CK
- 枕投げしようよ。Let's have a pillow fight.This sentence uses a related term for a pillow fight involving 枕.Tatoeba #9603206 by small_snow, translation #2007505 by CK
- 枕と毛布を下さい。May I have a pillow and a blanket, please?Tatoeba #81219 by bunbuku, translation #322496 by CK
- これは私の枕です。This is my pillow.
- 29 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
At a hotel check-in desk, Ren asks for an extra item.
- 蓮 Renすみません、枕をもう一つお願いします。sumimasen, makura o mou hitotsu onegaishimasu.Excuse me, one more pillow, please.
- 陽葵 Himariはい、すぐにお持ちしますね。hai, sugu ni omochi shimasu ne.Yes, I will bring it to you right away.
- 蓮 Renありがとうございます。arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you very much.
- 陽葵 Himariご利用ありがとうございます。go-riyou arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you for using our services.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pillow” translations and entries 枕, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
