noun
tanto
TAHN-toh
Tanto (noun) means a short traditional Japanese blade, often carried alongside a katana. Example: “The samurai kept a tanto tucked into his belt as a backup weapon.”
noun
1
A short traditional Japanese blade, often carried alongside a katana.
"The samurai kept a tanto tucked into his belt as a backup weapon."
How to use tanto
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA short Japanese dagger-like sword, historically used as a secondary weapon.
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Word forms
- Plural
- tantos
Fill the gap
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The samurai kept a _____ tucked into his belt as a backup weapon.
Etymology
Borrowed from Japanese tantō, meaning "short sword".
Rhymes for tanto
See all rhymes for tanto →Frequently asked questions
What does “tanto” mean?
The word “tanto” means a short traditional Japanese blade, often carried alongside a katana. In plain terms, a short Japanese dagger-like sword, historically used as a secondary weapon.
How do you pronounce “tanto”?
“Tanto” is pronounced TAHN-toh (/ˈtɑntoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “tanto” in a sentence?
Here is “tanto” used in a sentence: “The samurai kept a tanto tucked into his belt as a backup weapon.”
What part of speech is “tanto”?
“Tanto” is a noun.
Where does the word “tanto” come from?
The word “tanto” comes from Japanese. Borrowed from Japanese tantō, meaning "short sword".
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