棟
Meanings
1
ridge of a roof
Refers to the highest horizontal line where two roof slopes meet. Also appears as the prefix むな in compounds like 棟木 (むなぎ, ridgepole).
The ridge of the roof was damaged by the typhoon.
2
back of a sword
The blunt back edge of a single-edged blade, opposite the cutting edge. Often contrasted with 刃 (は, blade).
See also: 刀背
He struck the opponent's arm with the back of the sword.
3
counter for buildings
Used to count houses, apartment buildings, and other structures. Attaches directly to numbers.
There are three large apartment buildings in this town.
Usage patterns
- 刀の棟で〈相手〉を打つto strike someone with the blunt back of a sword blade
The swordsman struck his opponent with the back of his blade.
- マンションが〈数〉棟建つfor a certain number of buildings (e.g. apartment blocks) to be built
Three new apartment buildings were built in this area.