Definitions

(particle in old Chinese similar to 啊)

Etymology

Origin unclear. Likely depicts two lines of air () blowing through branches (), indicating the sound of wind. Possibly similar in origin to .

About

The character "兮" derives from an etymological construction combining the element "八" over "丂", a formation that visually suggests a measured exhalation or vocal pause, aligning with its original role as a modal particle. It functioned primarily in early Chinese poetry to orchestrate rhythm and accentuate emotional tones, serving as a structural and expressive device within verses. Over time, its utility shifted exclusively to literary and classical domains, where it maintained its poetic function while disappearing from vernacular use. The components of the character still allude to its foundational concept of audible breath, even as its application became specialized within traditional poetic forms.

Etymology Hide

Oracle etymology image
Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)
Oracle etymology image
Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)
Oracle etymology image
Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Western Zhou (~800 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

道路漫漫,需耐心。

Dàolù mànman xī, xū nàixīn.

The road is long and requires patience.

清风拂面,心神怡。

Qīngfēng fú miàn xī, xīnshén yí.

A gentle breeze brushes my face, delighting my heart and spirit.

归家之乐,无可比。

Guījiā zhī lè xī, wú kě bǐ.

The joy of returning home is incomparable.

月色皎洁,照我独行。

Yuèsè jiǎojié xī, zhào wǒ dúxíng.

The bright moonlight shines upon me as I walk alone.

前路艰险,吾亦往之。

Qiánlù jiānxiǎn xī, wú yì wǎng zhī.

Though the road ahead is treacherous, I will still go.

壮士胸怀,容山纳海。

Zhuàngshì xiōnghuái xī, róng shān nà hǎi.

The warrior's bosom is vast enough to hold mountains and seas.

故乡渺远,常在梦中。

Gùxiāng miǎoyuǎn xī, cháng zài mèng zhōng.

My hometown is distant, yet often appears in my dreams.

岁月流逝,唯情永存。

Suìyuè liúshì xī, wéi qíng yǒng cún.

Time passes, yet only true feelings endure forever.