Definitions
(noun)
master; owner; host
(adjective)
main; principal
(noun)
Lord; God
(verb)
to indicate; to signify
Etymology
Pictograph of a memorial tablet used for spiritual rituals, similar to 示.
About
The character "主" in its traditional form is structurally composed of a dot placed above the component "王" (wáng, meaning king). This dot represents a flame, and the character originally depicted a burning lampwick, meaning "lamp" or "candle". From this concrete object, the meaning extended metaphorically to signify the central or essential part, akin to the flame being the active core of the lamp. This conceptual shift led to its abstract meanings of "master", "owner", "host", or "main", as the one who holds the central or controlling position. The character's form has remained consistent, with the flame element stylized into the dot presiding over the "王" component.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
主人非常好客。
这是我的主要目标。
她主张和平解决争端。
这次会议主要由他负责。
他才是这个项目的主导者。
我们必须掌握自己的命运。
这位教授主要研究中国古代史。
这场慈善晚会由她主持。