Kumori

Kumori refers to a Japanese onomatopoeia that describes the sound of something being crushed or crumpled. It is often used to evoke the sound of dry leaves, paper, or similar brittle materials being stepped on or squeezed. The sound is typically soft and rustling, distinguishing it from harsher sounds like breaking or snapping.

In literature and everyday conversation, kumori can be employed to create sensory details and enhance imagery. For instance, a description might involve the "kumori of footsteps" through fallen autumn leaves, or the "kumori of a crumpled letter" being tossed aside. The word's onomatopoeic nature makes it an effective tool for conveying a specific auditory experience in a concise manner.

While primarily an auditory descriptor, kumori can also imply a sense of fragility or disposability associated with the objects making the sound. The sound itself is usually not forceful and suggests a gentle yielding or breaking. It is a common element in Japanese descriptive language, contributing to the richness of its onomatopoeic vocabulary.