Translation guide
Calico refers to a type of plain-woven cotton fabric, often printed with a small pattern. In Japanese, the fabric is commonly called キャラコ, while the animal (calico cat) is 三毛猫.
The cotton fabric, often with a printed pattern
The standard loanword for calico fabric. Used in sewing and crafts.
このキャラコでワンピースを作ります。
I'll make a dress with this calico.
A traditional Japanese term for printed cotton fabric, often with intricate patterns. Can refer to calico or chintz.
General term for printed fabric, often used for calico in everyday contexts.
手芸店でかわいいプリント生地を買った。
I bought cute printed fabric at the craft store.
A domestic cat with a tri-color coat (white, orange, black)
The standard term for a calico cat. Literally 'three-fur cat'.
In English, 'calico' can mean both a fabric and a cat. In Japanese, these are distinct words: キャラコ for fabric, 三毛猫 for the cat. Using the wrong one will cause confusion.
I sewed a pouch with calico fabric.
うちの三毛猫はとても人懐っこいです。
Our calico cat is very friendly.
A direct loanword for 'calico' when referring to the cat breed. Less common than 三毛猫.
キャリコという猫の種類を知っていますか？
Do you know the cat breed called calico?