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tokonoma

noun
to·​ko·​no·​ma | \ ˌtō-kə-ˈnō-mə How to pronounce tokonoma (audio) \

Definition of tokonoma

: a niche or alcove in the wall of a Japanese house for the display of a decorative object

Examples of tokonoma in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 The 34 Japanese-style rooms are archetypal of such establishments: tatami mat floors, low tables with legless chairs, an ornamental alcove (tokonoma), and sliding shoji screens characterize the accommodations. — Christina Liao, Vogue, "6 of the Most Luxurious Ryokans in Japan," 12 Jan. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'tokonoma.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of tokonoma

1871, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for tokonoma

Japanese

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More from Merriam-Webster on tokonoma

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with tokonoma

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tokonoma

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