兎(うさぎ)

兎(うさぎ) means rabbit or hare.

Counter

• 一羽(いちわ)、二羽(にわ) (traditional counter for rabbits; 羽(わ))
• 一匹(いっぴき)、二匹(にひき) (also used; 匹(ひき))

Cultural note

• In Japanese folklore, there's a rabbit on the moon making mochi
• Rabbits are associated with cleverness and quick movement

Common expressions

• 兎(うさぎ)と亀(かめ) (The Tortoise and the Hare)
• 脱兎(だっと)のごとく (like a fleeing rabbit - very fast)