1.
resting one's chin in one's hand, chin-in-hand
The posture of propping one's chin or cheek on one's hand, typically with the elbow on a table. Can suggest boredom, deep thought, or idle relaxation.
頬杖をつく。
To rest one's chin in one's hand.
授業中に頬杖をついてはいけません。
You must not rest your chin on your hand during class.
窓の外を見ながら頬杖をついて、ぼんやりしていた。
I was resting my chin on my hand and staring blankly out the window.
The posture of resting one's cheek or chin on one's hand, typically with the elbow on a table or desk.
WORD FORMATION:
頬 (cheek) + 杖 (cane/prop) — literally "a prop for the cheek."
USAGE:
Almost always appears with the verb つく: 頬杖をつく (to rest one's chin on one's hand). The gesture can suggest boredom, absent-mindedness, or deep thought.
CULTURAL NOTE:
Considered bad posture in Japan. Students are often told not to do this during class (授業中), and it can appear rude or inattentive in meetings and formal settings.
Related Words
Related:
頬 (cheek)