inro

[ in-roh ]

noun,plural in·ro.
  1. a small lacquer box with compartments for medicines, cosmetics, etc., worn on the waist sash of the traditional Japanese costume.

Origin of inro

1
1610–20; <Japanese inrō<Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese yìn signature seal, chop + lǒng round lidded container; the inro was originally used to carry one's chop

Words Nearby inro

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use inro in a sentence

  • Look at this little netsuke, or inro, or sword-guard, and follow the workman as you admire each detail of the execution.

  • An inro, or pill-box, might require several years for perfection, though small enough to go into a fob.

    The Empire of the East | H. B. Montgomery
  • To his side was tied a gold-lacquered inro, and his paunch was much distended and as round as a large bowl.

    Romances of Old Japan | Yei Theodora Ozaki