1.
single layer, one fold
A single layer or fold of something, as opposed to double or multiple layers.
一重の花びらが美しい。
The single-layered petals are beautiful.
2.
single eyelid (monolid)
An eyelid without a visible crease, common among East Asians. Short for 一重まぶた.
私は一重まぶたです。
I have single eyelids (monolids).
一重でも似合うメイクを研究した。
I researched makeup that looks good with single eyelids.
SENSE 2 - EYELID USAGE:
In beauty and cosmetics contexts, 一重 is commonly used alone to mean 一重まぶた (single/monolid eyelid), contrasted with 二重 (double eyelid with visible crease).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 一重まぶた (single eyelid/monolid)
- 一重の花 (single-petaled flower)
- 一重に (solely, entirely - adverbial use)
CONTRAST:
- 一重: single layer/fold, monolid
- 二重: double layer/fold, double eyelid
- 八重: multi-layered (especially for flowers like 八重桜)
CULTURAL NOTE:
In Japan, both 一重 and 二重 eyelids are considered attractive. There is significant beauty industry focus on eyelid appearance, with products to create temporary double eyelid folds available.
Related Words
Contrast:
二重 (double)