also: はつセリ
first auction of the year at a wholesale market
Typically refers to the first auction of seafood, fruit, or other produce at a wholesale market after the New Year holiday. Often a festive event with high prices.
築地市場の初競りで、マグロが高値で落札された。
At the first auction of the year at Tsukiji Market, a tuna was sold for a high price.
初競りは毎年1月5日に行われる。
The first auction of the year is held on January 5th every year.
Standard kanji spelling for the first auction of the year at wholesale markets.
Mixed kanji-katakana spelling, often seen in market contexts.
Mixed kanji-hiragana spelling, less common but still used.
Compound of 初 (hatsu, 'first') and 競り (seri, 'auction'). The reading はつせり is a straightforward combination.