靴(くつ)べら

A compound of 靴(くつ) (shoe) and へら (spatula, flat tool). Written in mixed script as 靴(くつ)べら; the kanji form 靴篦(くつべら) exists but is rarely used.

Cultural note

Shoehorns are a common household item in Japan, where shoes are removed at the 玄関(げんかん) (entryway) of homes, schools, and many businesses. Long-handled shoehorns are often placed near the entrance for convenience.

Common collocations

• 靴(くつ)べらを使(つか)う — to use a shoehorn
• 靴(くつ)べらで靴(くつ)を履(は)く — to put on shoes with a shoehorn
• 長(なが)い靴(くつ)べら — a long-handled shoehorn

Related words

• 玄関(げんかん) — entryway; where shoes are removed in Japanese homes
• 靴(くつ) — shoes
• 下駄箱(げたばこ) — shoe cupboard, shoe rack