traditional Japanese hairpin; ornamental hairpin
Refers to a specific type of traditional Japanese hairpin, often used in historical or cultural contexts.
I saw an Edo-period hairpin at the museum.
Edo-period woman's hairstyle using a hairpin
Standard kanji form for this traditional hairpin.
Kana spelling used when the kanji is obscure or for learners.
The kanji 笄 is composed of 竹 (bamboo) and 开 (open), suggesting a bamboo hairpin. The reading こうがい is of native Japanese origin, but the exact derivation is uncertain.