noun
Specifically the string of a bow (e.g., archery, violin bow).
弓の弦が切れたので新しいのを張った。
The bowstring broke, so I put on a new one.
noun
string (of a musical instrument)
Used for strings of shamisen, guitar, violin, etc. Often written 弦 or 絃.
ギターの弦を交換したら音が良くなった。
After changing the guitar strings, the sound improved.
noun
Only when written 鉉
Refers to the curved handle of a pot or kettle. The kanji 鉉 is specifically used for this meaning.
鉄瓶の鉉を持って持ち上げる。
Lift the iron kettle by its bail.
noun
diagonal levelling wire (on a masu)
A thin wire stretched diagonally across the top of a masu (枡) to level off rice or other contents. Also written as 梁 in this context.
See also: 枡
枡の弦を使って米をすりきる。
Level off the rice using the diagonal wire on the masu.
The kanji 弦 depicts a bow with a string, originally referring to bowstrings. Extended to strings of musical instruments and, by metaphorical shape, to arched handles and levelling wires.