What Is “Zuru Zuru”? Japanese Onomatopoeia for Slurping and Dragging

If you’ve ever heard someone slurping noodles or dragging a long scarf behind them — the Japanese onomatopoeia “Zuru Zuru” captures that slippery, dragging sound perfectly!

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What is “Zuru Zuru”?

Zuru Zuru” is a Japanese onomatopoeia that represents the sound and motion of something being slurped, dragged, or pulled continuously.

It’s commonly used when slurping noodles like ramen, but also when something trails along the ground — like a blanket or a long scarf.

Pronunciation

zoo-roo zoo-roo

Categories

Impression / Sound / Movement

Examples in Daily Life

Example 1: Slurping ramen with gusto

He was eating so fast — slurp! slurp! zuru zuru!

Example 2: Dragging a blanket across the floor

She walked half asleep, her blanket going zuru zuru behind her.

Cultural Note

In Japan, slurping noodles isn’t rude — it’s actually encouraged!
The “zuru zuru” sound shows enjoyment, and it helps cool down hot noodles while enhancing the aroma.

Beyond food, “zuru zuru” can describe a lazy or tired dragging motion, making it a fun and flexible expression.

How Do You Say It?

It looks fun on the page, but how does it sound?
Let’s say it together — press play and listen!

What Does “Zuru Zuru” Look Like?

Some words aren’t just sounds — they slide across the page.
Let your eyes follow these slurping letters: “Zuru Zuru.”

Watch & Feel the Zuru Zuru World!

Slurping ramen with gusto

That zuru zuru sound means they’re loving it!

Dragging a Leash

When the owner accidentally dropped the leash, the border collie noticed right away and started zuru zuru—dragging it across the ground—to bring it back.
What a smart and thoughtful pup!

Try Using It!

Next time you hear someone slurping noodles or dragging something lazily, say “Zuru Zuru!” — it might just make you smile!

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If you’re curious about what kind of onomatopoeia fits a certain scene or feeling, feel free to make a request!

Kind thoughts, warm feedback, or any nice ideas are always welcome.
You can leave a comment in the section at the bottom of the page.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

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Naoboo
Welcome to this site — a soft and cozy space just for you.
Here, Japanese onomatopoeic expressions are collected — each one like a tiny, sound-flavored candy, a little piece of the world shared gently and playfully.

I hope you’ll find a favorite or two to carry with you.
Thank you for visiting.

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