inro

[ in-roh ]

noun

, plural in·ro.

1. a small lacquer box with compartments for medicines, cosmetics, etc., worn on the waist sash of the traditional Japanese costume.

Word History and Origins

Origin of inro¹

1610–20; < Japanese inrō < Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese yìn signature seal, chop + lǒng round lidded container; the inro was originally used to carry one's chop

Example Sentences

And there are historic bags, such as an inro, a pillbox bag from the 19th century used by Japanese men to carry medicine, and a 17th-century purse in the shape of a frog.

From New York Times

The lightsaber which hung from the belt of Obi-Wan’s famous brown kimono was based on the inro – a carrying case for small objects traditionally suspended from the obi, in an early version of the manbag.

From The Guardian

In addition to netsuke, the collection includes inro — boxes held in place by a netsuke.

From Washington Post

The inro from Evergreen features rare blue-lacquer work; the round netsuke, at the top of the cord, has a chrysanthemum design.

From Washington Post

The old Samburus, who knew that locality, claimed that the caravan would have to cross high passes between the mountains which they called Kullal and Inro, after which they would enter into the Ebene country, lying south of Borani.

From Project Gutenberg