tatami

[ tuh-tah-mee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, plural ta·ta·mi, ta·ta·mis.

(in Japanese houses) any of a number of thick, woven straw mats of uniform dimensions, about 3 feet by 6 feet (91 centimeters by 183 centimeters), the placing of which determines the dimensions of an interior.

tatami

/ tæˈtæmɪ; təˈtɑːmɪ /

a thick rectangular mat of woven straw, used as a standard to measure a Japanese room

Origin of tatami¹

From Japanese, dating back to 1895–1900; noun use of the verb: “to fold up”

Origin of tatami¹

Japanese

An excuse for the neglect of cats is that they scratch woodwork and tatami and insist on carrying their food into the best room.

The multitudes of fleas that infest the normal Japanese home are convincing proof of the real state of the "tatami."

In places the frayed tatami (mats) bent under his feet, evidence of decay of the supporting floor.

She waited the reply, eyes cast down on the tatami, for she at least had some remains of modesty.

A score of wine casks lay tumbled, the liquor spilled on the tatami.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse