Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common word for socks is くつした, but there are other words for specific types like tabi or ankle socks. This guide covers how to talk about socks in everyday situations.
Referring to ordinary socks worn with shoes
The standard word for socks. Used for most everyday socks.
新しい靴下を買った。
I bought new socks.
靴下を履くのを忘れた。
I forgot to put on socks.
Loanword from English. Often used for casual or sporty socks, especially in fashion contexts.
このソックス、かわいいね。
These socks are cute, aren't they?
Referring to tabi, the split-toe socks worn with kimono
Traditional split-toe socks, usually white, worn with kimono and zori sandals.
着物を着るときは足袋を履きます。
When wearing a kimono, you wear tabi.
Referring to socks that end at or below the ankle
Loanword for ankle socks. Commonly used in fashion and everyday speech.
夏はアンクルソックスをよく履く。
In summer, I often wear ankle socks.
Specifically refers to very short socks that are hidden inside sneakers.
スニーカーソックスがずれて気になる。
My no-show socks keep slipping and it bothers me.
Referring to socks that reach the knee or higher
Knee-high socks, often associated with school uniforms.
制服にはハイソックスを合わせます。
I wear knee-high socks with my uniform.
Over-the-knee socks, longer than knee-high.
オーバーニーソックスを履くと足が長く見える。
Wearing over-the-knee socks makes your legs look longer.
Referring to socks for cold weather or comfort
Thick socks. A descriptive phrase using 厚手 (thick) + 靴下.
冬は厚手の靴下が欠かせない。
Thick socks are essential in winter.
Thick, fluffy socks meant for wearing indoors, like slipper socks.
ルームソックスを履いて暖まる。
I warm up by wearing room socks.
The English word 'socks' usually refers to short or casual foot coverings. For women's sheer stockings or tights, use ストッキング (sutokkingu) or タイツ (taitsu). 靴下 can sometimes include these, but it's safer to use the specific word.
ストッキングが伝線した。
My stockings got a run.
Another term for knee-high socks, often used in fashion.
ニーソックスが流行っている。
Knee-high socks are in fashion.