Translation guide
A hairpiece is an artificial covering or addition of hair worn to conceal baldness, enhance appearance, or as part of a costume. Japanese has several words depending on the type and context.
A general term for any artificial hair worn on the head, including full wigs and partial pieces.
The most common and general word for a wig or hairpiece. Can refer to full wigs, toupees, or costume wigs.
He is wearing a hairpiece.
I ordered a stage wig.
Loanword from English 'wig'. Often used in fashion, beauty, and medical contexts. Sounds slightly more modern or stylish than かつら.
She wears a wig as a fashion accessory.
A small hairpiece used by men to cover a bald spot.
A hairpiece used by women to add volume or length, often for styling.
Short for 'hair extension'. Very common among younger women. Refers to clip-in or bonded hair additions.
She added extensions to her hair for volume.
Full form of エクステンション. Used in formal or written contexts.
Demand for hair extensions is increasing.
Traditional term for false hair or hairpieces. Can refer to any detachable hair addition, including those used in traditional hairstyles.
A wig used in theater, cosplay, or performances.
Both mean 'wig', but かつら is the traditional Japanese word and can sound slightly old-fashioned or associated with baldness concealment. ウィッグ is a modern loanword often used in fashion, beauty, and medical contexts (e.g., for cancer patients). In casual conversation, かつら is more common, but ウィッグ is gaining popularity.
The English word 'hairpiece' is not commonly used as a loanword in Japanese. While ヘアピース exists, it is technical and not widely understood. Use かつら or ウィッグ for general purposes, and specify the type if needed.
最新のヘアピースは自然な見た目です。
The latest hairpieces look natural.
The bride used a hairpiece for her traditional Japanese hairstyle.
Kabuki actors wear stage wigs.