1.
shelved; buried; never released; put away permanently
Describes a project, work, plan, or product that was completed or nearly completed but never made public or was permanently set aside.
Literally "put into the storehouse." The 蔵 was a traditional storehouse where things were kept out of sight. The お prefix adds a slightly formal or set-phrase quality. Commonly used in the entertainment industry for unreleased works.
Common collocations
- お蔵入りになる: to be shelved
- お蔵入りにする: to shelve (something)
- 長年お蔵入りだった: had been shelved for years
- お蔵入り作品: a shelved work
Usage
Frequently used for movies, TV episodes, albums, or projects that were completed but never released, typically due to scandals, legal issues, quality concerns, or changes in circumstances. Also used more broadly for any plan or idea that gets permanently set aside.