word
Japanese
shibui
shih-BOO-ee
ʃɪˈbuːiListen
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Syllable breakdown
shibui
Sounds like
Say 'shih-BOO-ee'.
Dictionary meaning
A Japanese aesthetic concept of subtle, unobtrusive beauty; the beauty of understated elegance.
History and origin
Japanese — from 'shibu' (astringent — as in the aftertaste of unripe persimmon).
Examples
- The architect's work has a shibui quality — deeply satisfying without announcing itself.
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