縁(へり)

へり
noun
edge; border; rim; trim
daily-life
1. edge; border; rim; trim
The outer edge or boundary of an object, typically the strip of material running along the perimeter. Used for the fabric border of tatami mats, the rim of dishes, the edges of pools and roofs, and similar perimeter areas.
帽子(ぼうし)の縁(へり)が破(やぶ)れた。
The brim of the hat tore.
畳(たたみ)の縁(へり)を踏(ふ)まないように歩(ある)く。
Walk without stepping on the edge of the tatami mats.
テーブルの縁(へり)に腰(こし)を掛(か)けて話(はな)していた。
They were talking while perched on the edge of the table.

Refers to the visible edge or trim of an object — often a strip of fabric, wood, or other material along the perimeter.

Common collocations

Cultural note

In traditional Japanese etiquette, you do not step on the 畳(たたみ)の縁(へり) — both as a matter of respect and because the cloth border wears out faster than the woven surface.

Similar words

  • 端(はし): end; edge — the endpoint or tip of something, not necessarily a decorative border
  • 縁(ふち): edge; rim — same kanji, broader meaning of any rim or boundary line
  • 縁(えん): same kanji, completely unrelated meaning ('connection, fate')

Related Words

Compare: 端(はし) (end)
general
Added 2026.5.31 13:10 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:02
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