杓文字(しゃもじ)

杓文字(しゃもじ) is a flat paddle used for scooping and serving rice — an essential kitchen tool in Japanese homes. Usually written in hiragana as しゃもじ.

Common patterns

• しゃもじでご飯(はん)をよそう: to scoop rice with a paddle
• しゃもじで混(ま)ぜる: to stir/mix with a paddle
• しゃもじを水(みず)でぬらす: to wet the paddle (prevents sticking)

Types

• 木(き)のしゃもじ: wooden rice paddle (traditional)
• プラスチックのしゃもじ: plastic rice paddle (modern, often non-stick)

Cultural note

宮島(みやじま) (広島県(ひろしまけん)) is famous for large decorative しゃもじ sold as souvenirs. Historically, しゃもじ have been associated with good luck and prayers for victory.