About
The character '典' derives from an etymological composition combining the element for 'book' with that for 'base,' visually representing valued texts placed upon a stand to denote their canonical status. Originally referring to concrete objects such as important manuscripts and legal codes, its semantic scope widened over time to incorporate abstract ideas of standard, ceremony, and authoritative reference. This development is reflected in contemporary compounds like '典礼' indicating formal ceremonies and '字典' referring to dictionaries, where the character continues to carry implications of established formality and normative authority.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我经常使用字典学习。
这是一部经典小说。
学校举办了开学典礼。
她是我们班的典范学生。
他典当了家里的古董。
老师讲解了这个历史典故。
这座建筑设计得很典雅。
图书馆典藏着珍贵的手稿。