竹刀
Meanings
1
bamboo sword; shinai
Specifically the bamboo practice sword used in kendo. The reading しない is standard; ちくとう is a rare alternative reading.
We use bamboo swords in kendo practice.
I bought a new shinai.
2
Only with reading ちくとう
Rare reading ちくとう for the same object; almost always read しない in modern Japanese. This reading is restricted to the kanji form 竹刀.
The reading ちくとう for 竹刀 is almost never used.
Usage patterns
- 竹刀を構えるto hold a shinai in a ready stance
The player held his shinai in a ready stance and stared at his opponent.
- 竹刀で打つto strike (someone/something) with a shinai
The teacher had us practice striking the head guard with a shinai.
- 竹刀を振るto swing a shinai
Every morning I practice swinging the shinai a thousand times.