ひょこひょこ

ひょこひょこ
adverb
bobbing; nodding; with an uneven gait
descriptive
1. with a bobbing or nodding motion
Describes movement with repeated up-and-down motions, like a bird's head or walking with a limp.
鳩(はと)がひょこひょこと歩(ある)いている。
The pigeon is walking with a bobbing motion.
彼(かれ)は足(あし)を痛(いた)めてひょこひょこ歩(ある)いていた。
He was limping along because he hurt his foot.
人形(にんぎょう)がひょこひょこと動(うご)いておもしろい。
The puppet moves with a bobbing motion, which is fun to watch.

Type: Mimetic word (gitaigo) describing manner of movement.

Nuance: Describes uneven, bouncy movement with:

  • Up-and-down bobbing motion
  • Slightly comical or cute appearance
  • Often asymmetric or unsteady gait

Typical subjects

  • Birds walking (pigeons, chickens)
  • People walking with a limp
  • Puppets or toys
  • Small children just learning to walk

Common patterns

Similar words

Related Words

Related: ちょこちょこ (small quick steps)
Compare: ぴょんぴょん (hopping, jumping)
Compare: よたよた (tottering, unsteady walk)
general
Added 2026.1.19 8:54 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
07000/07126_hyokohyoko