1.
closet, storage space
A built-in storage space in traditional Japanese rooms, typically used to store futons.
布団を押し入れに入れる。
To put the futon in the closet.
Common usage
押し入れから毛布を出す。
To take the blanket out of the closet.
押し入れの中を整理する。
To organize inside the closet.
押し入れ is a traditional Japanese-style closet.
Formation: 押す (to push) + 入れる (to put in) - items are 'pushed in'
Characteristics:
- Found in Japanese-style (washitsu) rooms
- Typically divided into upper and lower sections
- Traditionally used to store futons during the day
- Has sliding doors (fusuma or doors)
Contrast:
- 押し入れ: traditional Japanese closet (in tatami rooms)
- クローゼット: Western-style closet (in Western-style rooms)