noun
Japanese linden; Tilia japonica
A deciduous tree native to Japan, known for its fragrant flowers and soft wood. The word is usually written in kana.
公園に大きなしなの木が立っている。
A large Japanese linden tree stands in the park.
シナノキの花からはいい香りがする。
The flowers of the Japanese linden give off a nice fragrance.
Ateji spelling; rarely used.
Ateji spelling; rarely used.
The origin of the name しなのき is uncertain. It may be related to しな (flexible, pliant) referring to the soft wood, but this is not confirmed.