1.
floor cushion
A flat cushion used for sitting on tatami or wooden floors in Japanese-style rooms.
座布団に座ってください。
Please sit on the cushion.
客間に座布団を並べる。
To arrange floor cushions in the guest room.
座布団を勧める。
To offer a floor cushion (to a guest).
ETYMOLOGY:
座 (seat) + 布団 (bedding/cushion)
CULTURAL NOTES:
- Standard size is about 55×59 cm, though sizes vary
- In formal settings, guests should not sit on cushions until invited
- It's polite to fold and set aside a cushion when leaving
- Stepping on a cushion or kicking it is considered rude
POPULAR CULTURE:
On the TV show 笑点, performers receive 座布団 as rewards for good answers—a playful use of the traditional item.
COUNTER:
Counted with 枚: 座布団一枚 (one cushion)
Related Words
Related:
畳 (tatami mat)