Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

netsuke

noun

/ˈnɛtskeɪ/

Definition

A small carving, often made of wood or ivory, used to secure a cord that held a small pouch or item on a traditional Japanese garment.

Examples

The ornate netsuke featured a dragon design.
He collected various netsuke, each representing a different aspect of Japanese culture.
During the Edo period, netsuke became highly sought after by collectors.

Meaning

Netsuke are decorative toggles traditionally used in Japan to attach small items to the obi (sash) of a kimono, serving both functional and artistic purposes.