Translation guide
In Japanese, a family crest (家紋, kamon) is a heraldic emblem used to identify a family, clan, or individual. Unlike Western coats of arms, kamon are simple, stylized designs often based on plants, animals, or geometric patterns. The most common way to refer to a family crest is 家紋, but other terms exist depending on context.
The most common and general term for a family crest used by a household or lineage.
The standard word for a family crest. Used in everyday conversation and formal contexts. Refers to the emblem itself.
This kimono has a family crest on it.
Researching your family crest can sometimes reveal your roots.
A broader term for any heraldic emblem, including family crests, coats of arms, and insignia. More formal and often used in historical or academic contexts.
This crest has been passed down for generations.
A shorter, more casual term for a crest or emblem. Often used in compound words or when the context is clear.
What family does this crest belong to?
Specifically referring to a family crest displayed on traditional Japanese clothing.
Refers to a garment (usually a kimono or haori) that bears a family crest. Often used in the phrase 紋付き袴 (もんつきはかま) for men's formal attire.
Many people wear a crested kimono and hakama at weddings.
Means 'with a family crest' and can be used to describe items like clothing, accessories, or stationery that feature a kamon.
Referring to the actual design or pattern of a family crest, often by name.
Many kamon have specific names based on their motif, such as 丸に三つ柏 (まるにみつかしわ, circle with three oak leaves) or 五七の桐 (ごしちのきり, 5-7 paulownia). When discussing a particular design, using its name is more precise.
Our family crest is a circle with three oak leaves.
家紋 (kamon) specifically means a Japanese family crest. 紋章 (monshō) is a broader term for any heraldic emblem, including Western coats of arms. 紋 (mon) is a casual abbreviation often used in compounds. For most everyday situations, 家紋 is the best choice.
Western coats of arms are often more complex than Japanese family crests.
Unlike European heraldry, Japanese family crests are not exclusive to nobility. Many commoner families also have kamon, and they are still used today on formal clothing, gravestones, and business logos.
I received a furoshiki with my family crest on it.