Translation guide
The part of a garment that fits around the waist, such as on pants, skirts, or underwear. Japanese has specific words for different types of waistbands, and the most common term depends on the garment.
waistband (general)
elastic waistband
kimono sash
The strip of fabric at the top of pants, skirts, or similar garments that encircles the waist.
The most common and versatile word for 'waistband' in everyday Japanese. It refers to the waist part of pants, skirts, etc., and is often used in clothing descriptions and shopping contexts.
These pants have an elastic waistband.
Please measure the waistband size.
A more specific term for a waistband, often used for a separate belt-like band or a structured waistband on garments. Less common than ウエスト alone.
The waistband of this skirt is wide.
Literally 'girth' or 'waist measurement', sometimes used to refer to the waistband area in tailoring or technical contexts. Not common in everyday clothing talk.
A waistband made with elastic, often found on casual pants, shorts, or underwear.
The standard term for an elastic waistband. Combines 'gomu' (rubber/elastic) with 'waist'.
I like pants with an elastic waistband because they're comfortable.
Same meaning as ゴムウエスト, but word order reversed. Both are common, but ゴムウエスト is slightly more frequent.
The elastic waistband on these shorts is tight.
The sash or waistband used in traditional Japanese garments like kimono or hakama.
The sash worn with kimono, yukata, or martial arts uniforms. It is tied around the waist and is an essential part of traditional attire.
I'm learning how to tie a kimono waistband.
A thin cord or string used to hold the kimono in place before tying the obi. It functions as an inner waistband.
The elastic band at the top of underwear, briefs, or panties.
The word 帯 (obi) specifically refers to the sash worn with traditional Japanese clothing like kimono. Using it for a waistband on jeans or trousers would sound odd. Stick to ウエスト or ウエストベルト for Western garments.
When talking about waist size or measurement, ウエスト is the standard term. For example, ウエストサイズ (waist size) or ウエストを測る (measure the waist).
The waistband of these pants is too tight.
I prefer skirts with an elastic waistband.
She tied her obi beautifully.
Please check the waistband measurement.
まず腰紐を締めてから帯を巻きます。
First, tie the inner waistband, then put on the obi.
ゴムバンドが伸びてしまった。
The elastic waistband has stretched out.