1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “窯” (pronounced “yō” in Japanese) means “kiln” or “furnace.” It refers to a type of oven used for firing ceramics, pottery, and bricks, where high temperatures are required to transform raw materials into finished products.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “窯” is a compound character, formed by combining the radical “穴” (meaning “hole” or “cave”) with the character “釜” (meaning “kettle” or “pot”). This combination suggests a structure that contains heat, similar to how a kiln functions.
The radical “穴” indicates that the character is related to enclosed spaces, which is fitting for a kiln that is typically a closed chamber.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “窯” are:
- 陶器窯 (とうきがま, “tōkigama”) – pottery kiln
- 焼き窯 (やきがま, “yakigama”) – baking kiln
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「この窯で焼いた陶器はとても美しいです。」
(“The pottery fired in this kiln is very beautiful.”)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 炉 (ろ, “ro”) – furnace, which is generally used for heating rather than for firing materials.
Antonyms include:
- 冷 (れい, “rei”) – cold, which represents the opposite of the heat associated with a kiln.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The concept of “窯” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, particularly in the art of pottery and ceramics, which have been significant throughout Japanese history. Traditional Japanese pottery, such as Raku and Imari, often involves the use of specialized kilns.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions related to “窯” include:
- 「窯の火は消えず」 (かまのひはきえず, “kama no hi wa kiezu”) – “The fire in the kiln never goes out,” which symbolizes perseverance and the enduring nature of craftsmanship.