Sashimono
/ˌsɑːʃiˈmoʊnoʊ/noun
A Japanese term for an object attached or inserted into something, especially a samurai back-banner or traditional interlocking woodwork.
Did you know?A samurai’s sashimono could display a family crest, religious emblem, or battlefield signal, turning the warrior’s back into a moving heraldic message.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Japanese
Japanese
sasu (差す・指す)
“To put in, insert, attach, point, or extend—verbs with several written forms and related senses.”
Medieval Japanese
Japanese
sashimono (差物)
“An attached or inserted object; the term developed for items fixed to larger objects or structures.”
Sengoku Period, 15th–16th centuries
Japanese
sashimono (指物・差物)
“A small banner or identifying device attached to a samurai’s back, armor, or equipment.”
Edo Period, 17th–19th centuries
Japanese
sashimono (指物)
“Also used for traditional Japanese joinery and furniture made by fitting pieces together without prominent nails.”
Modern English
English
sashimono
“A Japanese loanword referring chiefly to samurai back-banners, and sometimes to Japanese interlocking woodwork.”