How Do You Spell DAKIMAKURA?

Pronunciation: [dˌakɪmɐkjˈʊ͡əɹə] (IPA)

Dakimakura, a Japanese word that refers to a body pillow with a character image on it, may seem complex to spell for English speakers. However, breaking down its pronunciation in IPA phonetic transcription, it becomes easier to spell correctly: /dɑːkiːməkuːrə/. The stress falls on the second syllable, and the vowels a and u have a long sound. Remembering the phonetic transcription helps to avoid misspelling dakimakura as "dakimakra" or similar variations.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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DAKIMAKURA Meaning and Definition

  1. Dakimakura refers to a type of large, body-length pillow that originated in Japan. The word "dakimakura" is derived from the Japanese words "daki" meaning "to embrace or hug," and "makura" meaning "pillow." As a result, dakimakura is often translated as "hug pillow" or "body pillow."

    A dakimakura typically measures around 150 to 160 centimeters in length and is filled with soft material like cotton or foam. Its elongated shape allows for comfortable support and cuddling. These pillows are usually designed with a printed cover that features anime characters, manga artwork, or even real-life celebrities. These covers are often made from silky or smooth materials, enhancing their visual appeal.

    Dakimakuras have gained popularity among anime and manga enthusiasts, often serving as collectible items or merchandise associated with beloved characters. Many fans enjoy the emotional connection and comfort they feel while embracing their favorite character on a dakimakura. Due to their increasing popularity, some dakimakuras may feature explicit or adult content, but they are also available with more innocent and family-friendly designs.

    While dakimakuras initially gained prominence in Japan, they have found a global following in recent years. Both male and female fans appreciate the emotional support and connection offered by these pillows. In addition to being used for personal comfort and relaxation, dakimakuras are occasionally featured as decorative items in bedrooms or living spaces.

    Overall, dakimakura pillows have become an iconic symbol of anime culture and an extension of fan expression, providing a unique combination of physical comfort and emotional attachment for enthusiasts worldwide.

Etymology of DAKIMAKURA

The word "dakimakura" is a compound word from the Japanese language. It consists of two components: "daki" (抱き) meaning to embrace or hug, and "makura" (枕) meaning pillow. Therefore, "dakimakura" refers to a type of large body pillow that people may hug or embrace while sleeping or resting. It has gained popularity in Japanese otaku culture as well, often featuring printed designs of characters from anime, manga, or video games.