ENGLISH
REFERENCE

obi

n. countable
C2 Proficiency UK //ˈəʊbaɪ// obi

n. a wide belt or sash that people wear with a traditional Japanese kimono. It is usually tied in a large, decorative knot at the back.

n. a broad sash worn with a kimono or other traditional Japanese garments. Often highly decorative and tied in various styles of knots (musubi) depending on the occasion and the wearer's status.


SIMPLE

She tied her silk obi in a beautiful bow.

CONTEXTUAL

The bride chose a gold-threaded obi to complement her white wedding kimono.

COMPLEX

While the kimono itself is often the focus of the ensemble, the choice of obi and the complexity of its knot are equally vital indicators of formality and tradition.

Synonyms
Origin

Borrowed from Japanese 帯 (obi, “belt”).

Usage

Commonly used in the context of Japanese culture or martial arts uniforms.

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