noun
leading an animal by the mouth
Refers to the act of leading a horse, cow, or similar animal by the halter or bridle. Often used in historical or agricultural contexts.
祭りでは、子どもが馬の口取りを体験した。
At the festival, the children tried leading a horse by the halter.
noun
A person who leads or cares for horses, especially in traditional settings. The term 'horse boy' is dated; 'groom' or 'stable hand' is more current.
彼は若い頃、旅館で口取りとして働いていた。
When he was young, he worked as a groom at a traditional inn.
noun
hors d'oeuvre; appetizer; side dish
In culinary contexts, refers to small dishes served before or alongside the main course, similar to hors d'oeuvres or appetizers. Common in traditional Japanese cuisine.
会席料理では、最初に口取りが出される。
In a kaiseki meal, an appetizer is served first.
Compound of 口 (kuchi, 'mouth') + 取り (tori, 'taking, handling'). The culinary sense likely derives from the idea of 'something to take into the mouth' as a starter.