コウモリ
コ
ウ
モ
リ
Meanings
1
usually written using kana alone
Standard word for the flying mammal. Usually written in katakana.
Bats start flying around in the evening.
There were many bats inside the cave.
2
abbreviation
Abbreviation of 蝙蝠傘 (こうもりがさ), a Western-style umbrella. Rare standalone use; mostly encountered in the compound.
See also: こうもり傘
The kanji 蝙蝠 can sometimes be read as こうもりがさ (umbrella).
3
derogatory
Derogatory term for someone who switches sides for personal gain, likened to a bat that is neither bird nor beast. Often used in political contexts.
He is said to be a political opportunist.
That turncoat switched sides again.
Usage patterns
- 〈場所〉にコウモリがすむbats live in a place
Many bats live in this cave.
- コウモリのように立場を変えるto switch sides opportunistically, like a bat
He switches his position depending on the situation, like a bat.