Shikibuton
/ˌʃiːkiˈbuːtɒn/noun
A Japanese mattress, traditionally stuffed with cotton, designed to be placed directly on a floor mat or platform.
Did you know?Unlike a Western bed, a shikibuton is traditionally aired, folded, and stored during the day, transforming the room from bedroom to living space.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Japanese
Japanese
shiku (敷く)
“To spread, lay down, or place over a surface”
Early Japanese
Japanese
shiki (敷き)
“A noun-forming form meaning something spread or laid down”
Middle Chinese
Middle Chinese
futon
“A padded sitting or sleeping cushion; the source of Japanese futon”
Pre-modern Japanese
Japanese
futon (布団)
“A padded quilt, cushion, or mattress”
Modern Japanese
Japanese
shikibuton (敷き布団)
“A futon laid beneath the sleeper, as opposed to a covering futon”
Modern English
English
shikibuton
“A Japanese-style floor mattress, especially one used with tatami or a low platform”