noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
dark reddish brown; polished brown
A traditional Japanese color name for a deep, refined brown with reddish undertones, often associated with tea or ceramics.
This tea bowl is glazed in a dark reddish-brown color.
Tono-cha is also used in traditional Japanese clothing as a calm, subdued color.
The term likely derives from との (砥の, 'polishing stone') + 茶 (tea/ brown), referring to a polished brown color. The exact historical origin is uncertain.