raw lacquer; unrefined lacquer tree sap
Refers to the natural, unprocessed sap of the lacquer tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum), before it is refined into usable lacquer (漆). Often contrasted with refined lacquer.
See also: 漆
Raw lacquer can easily cause a rash, so handle it with care.
Compound of 生 (ki, 'raw, unprocessed') + 漆 (urushi, 'lacquer'). The reading きうるし reflects the kun'yomi of both components.