Ever watched someone eat with full energy, opening their mouth wide with every bite?
That’s when the Japanese onomatopoeia “Paku Paku” (ぱくぱく) comes in — a playful, rhythmic sound that captures the motion and enthusiasm of repetitive eating.
Before we dive in, hear what it sounds like!
What is “Paku Paku” (ぱくぱく)?
“Paku Paku” describes the repetitive motion of opening and closing the mouth — especially when eating enthusiastically.
It can refer to:
- Someone munching steadily, bite after bite
- A fish or puppet moving its mouth open and closed
- A hungry person devouring food
It’s rhythmic, visual, and full of energy.
Pronunciation
pah-koo pah-koo
(Short and rhythmic — like munch munch munch!)
Category
Motion
What Does “Paku Paku” Look Like?
It looks like a child munching happily on pancakes.
Like a goldfish opening and closing its mouth.
Like someone in a cartoon rapidly eating rice balls with both hands!
How Do You Say It?
Say it with a steady beat:
Paku… paku… paku…
Like each joyful bite landing with purpose and hunger.
Example in Daily Life
Example: Hungry lunch break
He sat down at the park bench,
opened his bento,
and began eating —
paku paku…
Cultural Note
In English, you might say:
“Chomp chomp!” or “Nom nom!“
But “Paku Paku” focuses more on the mouth motion itself — not the chewing sound.
It’s a cute, lighthearted word used in manga, anime, and even by kids describing how they eat.
Watch & Feel the “Paku Paku” World!
Feel the “Paku Paku” — Pizza Challenge
Try Using It!
When you eat something with delight,
When your dog munches on snacks,
When a puppet or cartoon chomps away…
Say it cheerfully:
Paku paku〜!
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