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Kotomora

鎹

clamp, (kokuji)

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Readings

On'yomi

—

Kun'yomi

  • かすがい

Meaning

鎹 is a Japanese kokuji for a metal clamp or staple used to join two pieces of wood. Its meaning is specific to that tool and does not extend to abstract clamping ideas.

Most common words using 鎹

  • 子は鎹こはかすがい

    children are a bond between husband and wife; children hold marriages together; children are the strongest bond

  • 豆腐に鎹とうふにかすがい

    having no effect; waste of effort

  • 鎹かすがい

    large staple driven into two pieces of wood to hold them together; clamp; cramp (metal)

Explore all words using 鎹 →

Study

Etymology

鎹 is a Japanese kokuji created by combining 金 (metal) with 送 (send), likely to express a metal piece that sends or joins things together. The exact historical development is uncertain.

Meaning mnemonic

The left side 金 is metal, and the right side 送 suggests sending or joining. Picture a metal clamp sending two boards together, holding them tight.

Reading mnemonic

For かすがい, imagine a metal clamp that is a 'casual guy'—it just hangs out holding things together: casual guy -> かすがい.