1.
family crest; family emblem
A hereditary emblem used to identify a Japanese family, clan, or household. Originating in the Heian period, family crests feature stylized designs based on plants, animals, geometric shapes, or other motifs. They appear on formal clothing, tombstones, and traditional items.
うちの家紋は桐だ。
Our family crest is the paulownia.
着物に家紋が入っている。
The kimono has a family crest on it.
自分の家紋を知らない人が最近は増えているらしい。
Apparently, more and more people these days don't know their own family crest.
USAGE: 家紋 are found on formal kimono (紋付), gravestones, 提灯 (paper lanterns), and family-owned items. Common motifs include 桐 (paulownia), 菊 (chrysanthemum), and 梅 (plum blossom).
Historically, samurai families used 家紋 to identify themselves on the battlefield. Today, they are most commonly seen at weddings, funerals, and other formal ceremonies.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 家紋が入る: to bear a family crest
- 家紋入りの着物: kimono with a family crest
- 家紋を調べる: to look up one's family crest