Kotodama DB

Textures & Touch

From the silkiness of hair to the crunch of high-quality seaweed, Japanese has a word for every tactile sensation. Explore how objects and surfaces feel in the Japanese mind.

Featured Words

べたべた

beta-beta

Describes a sticky surface, the feeling of sweat on skin, or people being physically clingy or 'lovey-dovey'.

EverydaySocial

ふわふわ

fuwa-fuwa

Describes something very light and soft, like a cloud, a marshmallow, or a fluffy pet.

EverydayCute

がわがわ

gawa-gawa

Describes a coarse, stiff texture of fabric or paper that feels uncomfortable against the skin.

Dialect-nuancedTexture

ごわごわ

gowa-gowa

Describes thick, hard, and inflexible fabric or hair that doesn't flow or bend easily.

EverydayBeauty

もちもち

mochi-mochi

Describes a very chewy and elastic texture, predominantly used for food that feels like mochi.

EverydayFood-common

もちり

mochiri

Describes a dense, elastic softness that bounces back, like a fresh mochi rice cake or youthful skin.

EverydayBeauty

もふもふ

mofu-mofu

A modern, slightly slangy term for things so fluffy you want to bury your face in them.

EverydayModern Slang

ねばねば

neba-neba

Specifically describes substances that are sticky and form strings or threads when pulled apart, like Natto or okra.

Food-specificEveryday

ぱりぱり

pari-pari

Describes the texture or sound of something thin and dry being broken or eaten, like seaweed, potato chips, or fresh lettuce.

EverydayFood-common

さらさら

sara-sara

Describes a smooth, fluid, and dry texture or movement, such as silky hair or a flowing stream.

EverydayPositive

しゃきしゃき

shaki-shaki

Specifically describes the crisp, crunchy texture of fresh vegetables like beansprouts, apples, or lettuce.

EverydayFood-common

Nuance Comparisons