ほやほや

Frequency:
1

Describes something freshly made and still hot or steaming (e.g. just out of the oven or pot).

Noun Taking 'の'Na-AdjectiveOnomatopoeic or Mimetic Word

Examples

ほやほやの焼きたてパンを袋に入れた。

I put the freshly baked, still-warm bread in the bag.

湯気が立っていて、ほやほやの鍋料理をみんなで取り分けた。

Steam was rising as we all helped ourselves to the still-steaming pot dish.

手に持つと、まだほやほやして温かい。

When I hold it in my hand, it's still warm and fresh.

2

Describes someone or something brand-new or inexperienced (e.g. a recent graduate or a newly married couple).

Noun Taking 'の'Na-AdjectiveOnomatopoeic or Mimetic Word

Examples

彼は大学を出たばかりのほやほやの新入社員だ。

He's a brand-new employee who just graduated from university.

二人は結婚ほやほやで、毎日楽しそうに話している。

The two just got married and talk happily every day.