momme: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low / SpecializedTechnical / Trade / Commercial
Quick answer
What does “momme” mean?
A traditional Japanese unit of weight for pearls, textiles (especially silk), and other materials, equivalent to 3.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A traditional Japanese unit of weight for pearls, textiles (especially silk), and other materials, equivalent to 3.75 grams.
Primarily a technical and commercial term used in the textile industry (especially silk), jewellery (pearls), and trade to denote weight and quality (higher momme indicates heavier, denser fabric).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is equally rare in both varieties. No significant difference in usage; both understand it as a Japanese import term.
Connotations
Conveys expertise or specialization in silk, textiles, or pearls.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Almost exclusively found in niche commercial, textile, or jewellery contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “momme” in a Sentence
[Number] + momme + [Material/Item]a [Number]-momme [Material]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “momme” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The 19-momme silk had a superb drape.
- Look for a high-momme count for durability.
American English
- This 22-momme silk is ideal for a bedspread.
- She preferred the heavier, 25-momme fabric.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in product specifications for silk garments, bedding, or pearls (e.g., 'This duvet cover is made from 22-momme silk').
Academic
Might appear in papers on textile history, Japanese studies, or material science.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Standard term in textile engineering, silk trade, and jewellery for precise weight measurement.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “momme”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “momme”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “momme”
- Using it as an uncountable noun (e.g., 'This silk has a lot of momme').
- Pronouncing it like 'mommy' /ˈmɑːmi/. The final 'e' is pronounced.
- Assuming it is a brand name or style instead of a unit of weight.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Thread count measures the number of threads per square inch. Momme measures the weight in grams per a specific area, indicating the fabric's density and thickness.
It is pronounced /ˈmɒmi/ in British English and /ˈmɑːmi/ in American English, rhyming roughly with 'from me'.
Primarily in the silk textile industry and the pearl trade. It's a standard term for grading and pricing these materials.
A good range for a silk shirt or blouse is typically between 16 and 22 momme. Lighter than 16 may be too sheer, while heavier weights are used for jackets or bedding.
A traditional Japanese unit of weight for pearls, textiles (especially silk), and other materials, equivalent to 3.
Momme is usually technical / trade / commercial in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(None specific to this term)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'MOM' buying 'ME' a silk scarf; she checks the MOM-ME weight tag for quality.
Conceptual Metaphor
WEIGHT IS QUALITY (Higher momme number metaphorically indicates better, more substantial fabric).
Practice
Quiz
What does 'momme' measure?