Korean word

기지개

Pronunciation

Romanizationkijigae

Meaning

  • nounstretch

Example

아침에 기지개를 폈다.a chi me ki ji gae reul pyeot tta

I stretched in the morning.

Illustration for 기지개 (stretch)

More examples

회의 도중에 잠깐 쉬면서 모두 기지개를 폈다.hoe ui to jung e cham kkan swi myeon seo mo du ki ji gae reul pyeot tta

During a short break in the meeting, everyone stretched.

Core concept

The brief whole-body extension that loosens stiffness after sleep or stillness.

Common phrases

  • 기지개를 켜다ki ji gae reul kyeo da

    stretch

  • 기지개를 펴다ki ji gae reul pyeo da

    stretch

Similar words

스트레칭seuteureching: Stretching exercises that improve flexibility or relieve tired muscles.
몸풀기mompulgi: Gentle movements that prepare the body for physical activity.

Definition in Korean

잠에서 깨어나거나 오래 앉아 있다가 팔·등·허리 등을 쭉 펴서 몸의 뻣뻣함을 푸는 동작cha me seo kkae eo na geo na o rae an ja it tta ga pal teung heo ri teung eul jjuk pyeo seo mo mui ppeot ppeo ta meul pu neun tong jak

Word origin

The exact origin of this established Korean noun is uncertain, so it is best learned as a fixed word for loosening the body by stretching.

Usage tips

  • English uses stretch for both this quick reflex and planned exercise, while this word commonly points to the brief movement after waking or sitting still.

Opposites

  • 움츠림umcheurimhunching upnoun

Word lists with this word