outer overlap of a kimono; front panel of a wrap garment
Refers to the part of a kimono or similar wrap-front garment that lies on top when worn, farthest from the skin. Contrasts with 下前 (したまえ), the inner panel.
See also: 下前
When wearing a kimono, you overlap the outer panel over the inner panel.
Used for a share or percentage taken from a transaction, often in business or informal contexts. Related to 上米 (うわまい), an older term for a tribute or tax portion.
See also: 上米 (うわまい)
The intermediary takes a cut.
He was skimming a percentage off the sales.
Compound of 上 (うわ, 'upper') + 前 (まえ, 'front'). The percentage sense likely derives from the practice of taking a portion off the top, related to the older term 上米 (うわまい).