1.
floor cushion
A flat cushion used for sitting on tatami or wooden floors in Japanese-style rooms.
Etymology
座 (seat) + 布団 (bedding/cushion)
Cultural note
- 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.