What is wasei-eigo? 和製英語 (わせいえいご) is literally “Japanese-made English.” Wasei-eigo are unique Japanese words that have been adopted and adapted from English words. Some words have been abbreviated or transformed; some words have changed meaning from the original.
Here are ten fashion-related wasei-eigo.
トレーナー
sweatshirt
パーカー
hoodie
ワンピース
dress
ワイシャツ
dress shirt
パンツ
pants
パンツ
underwear
ファスナー
zipper
オールインワン
jumpsuit
ビーチサンダル (ビーサン)
flip flops
ヒール
high heels
Listen to the pronunciations and learn more vocabulary and phrases in the video.
Katakana Words
Wasei-eigo are part of カタカナ語 (katakana words). If you’re interested in learning more about these curious words, check out “100 Curious Katakana Words.” Learn more and sign up to our newsletter here for a free sample book.
