象牙
Meanings
1
Refers to the material from elephant tusks, used in crafts, piano keys, and traditional art. Also appears in compound terms like 象牙の塔 (ivory tower).
The trade of ivory is internationally regulated.
This personal seal is made of ivory.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉は象牙製だ(an object) is made of ivory
This piano's keys used to be made of ivory.
- 象牙を彫るto carve ivory
The craftsman carved the ivory into a beautiful statue.
- 象牙を密輸するto smuggle ivory
A man who tried to smuggle ivory was arrested.
Expressions
- 象牙の塔ivory tower