手拭(てぬぐ)い

てぬぐい
noun
tenugui; cotton hand towel
daily-life
1. tenugui; traditional Japanese cotton towel
A thin, rectangular cotton cloth traditionally used as a hand towel, headband, or decorative item.
手拭(てぬぐ)いで汗(あせ)を拭(ふ)く。
To wipe sweat with a tenugui.
職人(しょくにん)が頭(あたま)に手拭(てぬぐ)いを巻(ま)いている。
The craftsman has a tenugui wrapped around his head.
和柄(わがら)の手拭(てぬぐ)いをお土産(みやげ)に買(か)った。
I bought a tenugui with a Japanese pattern as a souvenir.

Etymology

手(て) (hand) + 拭(ぬぐ)う (to wipe)

Cultural note

A traditional 手拭(てぬぐ)い is typically about 35×90 cm, made of thin cotton with unfinished edges that dry quickly.
Experiencing a revival as both practical items and fashion accessories. Many contemporary designs are available.

Functions

  • As a towel for washing or wiping
  • As a headband during work or festivals
  • As a decorative item or wrapping cloth
  • In traditional dance and theater as a prop

CULTURAL NOTE (designs):
Often features traditional Japanese patterns (和柄(わがら)), seasonal motifs, or commemorative designs. Popular as souvenirs and gifts.

Related Words

Related: タオル (towel)
general
Added 2026.1.17 12:45 · Revised 2026.10.11 4:52
06000/06123_tenugui