Tombo

Tombo is a term most commonly associated with the Japanese word for dragonfly, usually romanized as tonbo and written as トンボ in Japanese. In this sense, tombo refers to insects in the order Odonata, known for their elongated bodies, two pairs of strong wings, and rapid, agile flight. Dragonflies are predators that catch smaller insects in midair and undergo a life cycle that includes aquatic nymph stages before becoming winged adults.

In Japanese culture, dragonflies carry symbolic associations with courage, strength, and happiness. The tombo motif appears in traditional art, literature, and crafts, and dragonfly imagery has historically appeared in samurai heraldry, poetry, and children's songs. The term is also encountered in place names and regional expressions, reflecting the cultural prominence of the dragonfly in Japan.

Outside of its insect meaning, tombo or tonbo is sometimes used as a proper noun in various contexts, including brands, fictional characters, or geographical names in different countries. These uses are independent of the insect sense unless explicitly connected by context.

Biologically, dragonflies are notable for their mature flight capabilities, including the ability to hover and maneuver with precision. They are often studied in ecology and entomology for their predatory behavior and role as indicators of healthy freshwater habitats.