KanjiJLPT N1
Family Crest

family crest, figures

Mnemonic

grandma pulls out an old letter from a cedar chest. Unfolding it reveals the Family Crest stamped in crimson wax—the ancient emblem of her bloodline. She traces the design with a trembling finger, whispering, 'This Family Crest is who we are.'
Additional thoughts
Picture the cedar chest, the yellowed letter, and a bold red wax seal bearing the crest. Grandma + Letter = the inherited Family Crest passed down through generations.
Quick recall
Grandma unfolds an old letter revealing the Family Crest in crimson wax.

Details

The keyword for 紋 is family crest. This kanji refers to the decorative emblems or heraldic symbols traditionally used by Japanese families to represent their lineage and identity. These crests, known as *kamon*, are stylized designs often featuring natural motifs such as flowers, animals, or geometric patterns, and they have been used for centuries on clothing, armor, and household items. By extension, 紋 can also refer to any pattern, design, or figured marking on a surface.
On'yomi
もん

Used in vocab