Yumi
/ˈjuːmi/noun
A traditional Japanese bow, especially the characteristically asymmetrical longbow used in kyūdō.
Did you know?The yumi’s asymmetrical design—shorter below the grip and longer above it—was historically practical for shooting from horseback, kneeling, or behind cover.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Japonic
Proto-Japonic
*jumi
“Reconstructed ancestral term for a bow; the exact prehistoric etymology is uncertain.”
8th Century
Old Japanese
yumi
“Bow; recorded in early Japanese literature and poetry.”
8th Century
Classical Japanese
弓 (yumi)
“Bow, especially a weapon for shooting arrows.”
Medieval Japan
Japanese
yumi
“The bow used by warriors, including mounted archers and samurai.”
20th Century
English loanword
yumi
“A Japanese bow, particularly in discussions of traditional archery.”
Modern English
English
yumi
“A traditional Japanese asymmetrical longbow.”