Translation guide
The English word "moulding" (or "molding") refers to a decorative strip used in architecture and interior design, or the process of shaping something. This guide focuses on the architectural sense, which is the most common meaning learners will encounter.
A shaped strip of wood, plaster, or other material used to cover transitions or for decoration on walls, ceilings, and furniture.
The most common direct loanword for architectural moulding. Widely understood in interior design and DIY contexts.
Adding moulding to the ceiling makes the room look luxurious.
Specifically refers to the moulding where the wall meets the ceiling (crown moulding). Common in Japanese carpentry.
The crown moulding in Japanese-style rooms often has a simple design.
A trim piece used to cover the joint between different flooring materials or between floor and wall. Similar to a transition strip.
We installed a transition moulding between the hardwood floor and the tatami.
Literally 'picture frame', but can refer to moulding used as a frame-like border on walls or ceilings. More specific to decorative framing.
Apply picture-frame-like moulding to the wall.
The act or process of shaping a material, such as plastic or metal, using a mold.
In casual conversation about home decoration, モールディング is perfectly fine. In traditional Japanese architecture contexts, terms like 回り縁 are more precise. For manufacturing, 成形 is the standard technical term.
この部品は鋳造で作られています。
This part is made by moulding (casting).