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.
At the first auction of the year at Tsukiji Market, a tuna was sold for a high price.
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.