also: あかぎれ
chaps; cracks; fissures
Refers to small cracks or fissures in the skin, often caused by dryness or cold. Commonly used for chapped hands, lips, or heels.
In winter, I get chaps on my hands and they hurt.
The cracks in my heels have gotten worse.
Usually written in kana. The kanji forms 皹 and 皸 are rare and not commonly used.
Alternate reading for the same meaning, also usually written in kana.
Rare kanji form for ひび (chaps/cracks).
Rare kanji form for ひび (chaps/cracks).
The origin is uncertain. The word is native Japanese, and the kanji forms 皹 and 皸 are rare and likely chosen for their meaning rather than reflecting historical usage.