Kumihimo
/ˌkuːmiˈhiːmoʊ/noun
A traditional Japanese technique and the braided cords produced by interlacing strands of thread, silk, or other fibers.
Did you know?Kumihimo cords were historically used for samurai armor, sword fittings, Buddhist objects, and ceremonial garments, giving the craft a strong association with status and ritual symbolism.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Japanese
Japanese
kumu
“To join, combine, interlace, or weave together”
Classical Japanese, 8th century
Old Japanese
himo
“A cord, tie, or fastening band; the term appears in early Japanese poetry”
Medieval Japan
Japanese
kumi
“A joining, grouping, or interlacing; the noun form of kumu”
Edo Period, 1603–1868
Japanese
kumihimo
“Braided cord made by interlacing threads, increasingly associated with formal dress, armor, and decorative arts”
Modern English
English
kumihimo
“The Japanese art of braiding cords, or a cord made using that technique”