ねばねば
neba-neba Food-specificEveryday Casual to Semi-formal
Sticky and stringy
What does ねばねば mean?
Specifically describes substances that are sticky and form strings or threads when pulled apart, like Natto or okra.
The Image: Visualizes the physical 'pull' of a viscous liquid that refuses to break.
When to use it
- Eating Natto
- Describes slime or okra
- Glue that hasn't dried
Translation Warning
In Japanese food culture, 'neba-neba' is often associated with health and vitality, whereas 'slimy' in English is usually negative.
Avoid using when:
- For simple surface stickiness (use 'beta-beta')
- For dry surfaces
Example Sentences
納豆はねばねばしている。
Natto is sticky and stringy.
Foodオクラのねばねばが好きだ。
I like the stickiness of okra.
Food