also: むや
noun
purlin; roof beam
Technical term in traditional Japanese architecture; a horizontal structural beam supporting the roof rafters.
See also: 母屋桁
この古民家では、母屋に使われている木材が特に太い。
In this old folk house, the timber used for the purlins is especially thick.
noun
main building; main house
Refers to the principal building of a manor or estate, as opposed to outbuildings. Cross-referenced with 母屋 (おもや).
See also: 母屋 (おもや)
敷地内には母屋のほかに離れと蔵がある。
On the grounds, besides the main building, there is a detached house and a storehouse.
noun
central room; main hall
In traditional palatial-style architecture (寝殿造), the central core room of the main building.
See also: 寝殿造
寝殿造では、母屋が建物の中心となる部屋だった。
In shinden-zukuri architecture, the moya was the central room of the building.
Obsolete reading; it is out-dated kana usage.
Alternate kanji spelling; less common.
The reading もや is of uncertain origin; the kanji 母屋 literally mean 'mother house', possibly reflecting its central or supporting role in a structure.