Quick answer
食 is the kanji for "Eat". The most common reading is く.う (kuu). Mnemonics and example sentences are listed below.
Meaning
Eat
Also : Food
Learn 食 with SRS
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
9 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
A lid covering a vessel with good things inside — food is contained beneath a cover, ready to be lifted and enjoyed, nourishing whoever opens it.
しょく (shoku) sounds like 'shock' — the shock of how good the food tastes.
Example Sentences
すしを食べたいです。
すしをたべたいです。
I want to eat sushi.
朝ご飯を食べてから、学校へ行きます。
あさごはんをたべてから、がっこうへいきます。
I go to school after eating breakfast.
Vocabulary using 食
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
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