カイロ
かいろ
noun
hand warmer; body warmer; heat pack
1.
hand warmer; body warmer; disposable heat pack
A small packet that generates heat, used to warm the body during cold weather. Modern disposable versions contain iron powder that heats up through oxidation when exposed to air. There are also reusable types filled with lighter fluid.
カイロをポケットに入れる。
I put a hand warmer in my pocket.
寒いので、貼るカイロを背中に貼った。
It was cold, so I stuck an adhesive heat pack on my back.
冬の屋外イベントでは使い捨てカイロが必需品だ。
Disposable hand warmers are essential at outdoor winter events.
A quintessentially Japanese winter item. The word comes from 懐炉 (懐 = pocket/bosom + 炉 = heater), meaning a heater kept close to the body. Usually written in katakana in modern usage.
TYPES:
- 使い捨てカイロ: disposable heat pack (most common type)
- 貼るカイロ: adhesive heat pack (sticks to clothing)
- 充電式カイロ: rechargeable hand warmer
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- カイロを貼る: to apply an adhesive heat pack
- カイロを持つ: to carry a hand warmer
- カイロが温かい: the heat pack is warm
CULTURAL NOTE:
Disposable カイロ are sold at every convenience store and drugstore in Japan from autumn through spring. They are commonly given as comfort items to people working outdoors and are a standard part of winter preparation.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 湯たんぽ: hot water bottle — used in bed for warmth
- ホッカイロ: brand name (Hokkairo) often used generically for disposable heat packs