tatami

[ tuh-tah-mee ]

noun

, plural ta·ta·mi, ta·ta·mis.

1. (in Japanese houses) any of a number of thick, woven straw mats of uniform dimensions, about 3 feet by 6 feet (91 centimeters by 183 centimeters), the placing of which determines the dimensions of an interior.

tatami

/ təˈtɑːmɪ; tæˈtæmɪ /

noun

1. a thick rectangular mat of woven straw, used as a standard to measure a Japanese room

Word History and Origins

Origin of tatami¹

From Japanese, dating back to 1895–1900; noun use of the verb: “to fold up”

Word History and Origins

Origin of tatami¹

Japanese

Example Sentences

An excuse for the neglect of cats is that they scratch woodwork and tatami and insist on carrying their food into the best room.

From Project Gutenberg

The multitudes of fleas that infest the normal Japanese home are convincing proof of the real state of the "tatami."

From Project Gutenberg

In places the frayed tatami (mats) bent under his feet, evidence of decay of the supporting floor.

From Project Gutenberg

She waited the reply, eyes cast down on the tatami, for she at least had some remains of modesty.

From Project Gutenberg

A score of wine casks lay tumbled, the liquor spilled on the tatami.

From Project Gutenberg