Translation and Meaning of: 鋸 - nokogiri

Explanation and Etymology - (鋸) nokogiri

The word 「鋸」 (nokogiri) is a Japanese term that refers to a hand or electric tool widely used for sawing or cutting materials such as wood and metal. The kanji 「鋸」 consists of the parts or radicals 「金」 which means "metal" and 「居」 which can mean "to inhabit", forming the ideogram that symbolizes an ancient and important tool made of metal. The sound "nokogiri" is derived from the sounds emitted when the tool is in use, reflecting the practical nature of this tool in daily life.

The etymology of the word has roots in Japanese culture, where saws play a vital role in carpentry and other forms of construction. The expression 「のこぎり」 is often used to designate any type of saw, whether intended for wood, metal, or other materials. Over time, the techniques and designs of saws have evolved, as well as the materials used in the manufacture of the blades, expanding the use and efficiency of this essential tool.

Historically, the use of saws dates back to ancient periods in Japan, where engineering and carpentry were highly valued. Tools such as the 「鋸」 were integrated not only into the construction of traditional buildings but also into the fine craftsmanship of furniture and decorative objects, often using local woods. The adaptation of the tool to local needs and cultures is a testament to Japanese ingenuity in the practice of carpentry and construction, where precision and quality are highly esteemed.