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.
WORD FORMATION:
頬 (cheek) + 杖 (cane/prop).
USAGE:
Almost always used with the verb つく: 頬杖をつく (to rest one's chin on one's hand).
CULTURAL NOTE:
Considered bad posture in Japan. Students are often told not to do this during class, and it can be seen as rude in formal settings.
Related Words
Related:
頬 (cheek)