軒下(のきした)

軒下(のきした) refers to the sheltered space beneath a roof's overhang.

Etymology

• 軒(のき): Eaves (the edge of a roof that overhangs)
• 下(した): Under, beneath

Common collocations

• Shelter from rain or sun
• Space for hanging laundry, storing items
• Nesting location for birds (especially swallows)
• 軒下(のきした)で雨宿(あまやど)りする (take shelter from rain under the eaves)
• 軒下(のきした)に干(ほ)す (to hang/dry under the eaves)
• 軒下(のきした)に巣(す)を作(つく)る (to build a nest under the eaves)

Cultural note

Swallows (燕(つばめ)) building nests under 軒下(のきした) is traditionally considered good luck in Japan. Homeowners often welcome these nests.

Common expressions

• 軒(のき)を貸(か)して母屋(おもや)を取(と)られる: "Lend the eaves and lose the main house" - a proverb meaning giving someone an inch and they take a mile.

Register: Neutral.