Definition

A type of sliding door or partition made of a wooden frame and covered with rice paper, commonly found in traditional Japanese homes.

Example

The room was separated by a beautiful shoji that let in soft light.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a traditional shoji in a Japanese house?

Yeah, they look so beautiful and elegant.

I love how they let light in while still providing privacy with the shoji.

Exactly, it's such a clever design for small spaces.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shoji is a Japanese word (障子), which refers to a type of sliding door or screen made of wood and paper. The term combines "shō" (meaning to block or obstruct) and "ji" (meaning a thing or object). Thus, shoji describes an object that serves to block or separate spaces.

Memory Tip

Imagine a sliding door that 'blocks' or 'separates' spaces — that's what a shoji does.

Visually Confused Words