Definition: a light but sturdy Japanese folding screen, consisting of two to six (sometimes even eight) panels made of silk or sturdy paper, mounted on hinged wooden frames and used as a room divider or as decoration during special occasions; dating from the 7th or 8th century, they became increasingly ornate in the early Edo Period, around 1603, with significant artists painting elaborate scenes on them in gold leaf and metallic paints, creating detailed, luminous works
Pronunciation: bee-yo-boo
Example: Byobu were usually made in pairs, but finding an intact set of antique screens is not always easy today.