1.
area around the mouth, lips and mouth area
The region of the face around and including the mouth. Often referenced when describing facial expressions, makeup, or physical features.
口元に笑みを浮かべた。
A smile appeared around the mouth.
マスクで口元が隠れている。
The area around the mouth is hidden by a mask.
彼女は口元を手で押さえながら小さく笑った。
She laughed quietly while covering her mouth with her hand.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 口元に笑みを浮かべる (have a smile on one's lips)
- 口元を隠す (cover one's mouth area)
- 口元を押さえる (hold one's hand over one's mouth)
- 口元が緩む (the corners of the mouth relax into a smile)
Frequently used in literary and descriptive writing to convey subtle facial expressions. The similar term 口許 uses a different kanji but has the same meaning.