About
The character 宝 (bǎo) and its traditional form 寶 form an ideogrammatic compound depicting valuable items safeguarded within a home. The traditional character features the roof radical 宀 (mián) sheltering components for jade (王, representing 玉), a pottery jar (缶), and cowrie shells (貝), which were ancient currency, visually forming a storehouse of diverse riches. The simplified version streamlines this by retaining only the roof 宀 and the jade 玉, conveying the core idea of precious jade secured in a dwelling. 宝 denotes treasures, cherished possessions, precious materials, and anything treated with great care; it also serves as an affectionate term for young children.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
宝宝在玩球。
这是我的宝贝书。
宝贵的时间不能浪费。
她喜欢收集宝石。
大学是知识宝库。
宝座上的皇帝很年轻。
这把宝剑历史悠久。
保护这些宝物是我们的使命。