Definitions
(adjective)
dark; obscure
(adjective)
deep; profound
(noun)
the underworld; netherworld
(adjective)
stupid; foolish
Etymology
Depicts two hands (𠬜) opening a woman's legs with a baby's head protruding out of it. Based on the original meaning "to give birth to a child", now written as 娩. The current meaning is a phonetic loan.
About
The character "冥" originally depicted an object covered or enveloped, conveying a sense of darkness and obscurity. Its traditional structure consists of the radical "冖" representing a covering, over the components "日" (sun) and "六", which in this context is a corrupted form historically representing two hands, together implying the sun being covered or sealed away. This composition established its core meanings related to darkness, the underworld, and deep, hidden places. Over time, its semantic range broadened from purely physical darkness to include abstract concepts such as profound thought, the unseen spiritual realm, and fate as determined by unseen forces. The character’s form has remained largely consistent, with its components continuing to visually suggest its fundamental association with concealed light.
Example Sentences Hide
冥王星是太阳系中的一颗矮行星。
他在冥思苦想这个问题。
传说中冥界是死者的世界。
夜晚的森林显得幽冥而神秘。
他感觉冥冥中有种力量在指引他。
冥寿是指为逝者庆祝的生日。
冥器是古代墓葬中的随葬品。
冥钞是祭祀时使用的纸钱。