short pillar supporting a ridgepole
Architectural term for a short vertical post set on a beam to support the ridgepole in traditional Japanese buildings. Now mostly encountered in the idiom うだつが上がらない.
See also: うだつが上がらない
raised roof edge; fire wall with raised edge
A mud wall with a raised roof edge, used as a firebreak and status symbol in traditional townhouses. Also a historical architectural feature; now mainly known through the idiom.
In the old farmhouse, a short pillar stands on the beam to support the ridgepole.
The うだつ in the idiom うだつが上がらない originally referred to this pillar.
The raised roof edge of the townhouse also served as a fire wall.
A house with a raised roof edge was a sign of a wealthy merchant family.
Kana spelling is standard for both senses; usually written in kana.
Kanji spelling for the architectural term; rarely used in modern writing.
Rarely used kanji form.
The origin is uncertain; the word refers to traditional architectural features and is now mostly known through the idiom うだつが上がらない.