About
The character 枯 is a phono-semantic compound, with the semantic radical 木 (wood/tree) on the left indicating a connection to plants, and the phonetic component 古 (gǔ) on the right. Its core meaning refers to vegetation that has withered or dried up, typically from lack of water or seasonal change. This literal sense of desiccation extends metaphorically to describe anything lacking vitality, such as dull writing or a monotonous lifestyle. In medical contexts, it can also denote extreme physical depletion or emaciation.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
小草枯黄了。
树木在秋天枯萎。
枯枝在风中摇摆。
长期干旱导致井枯。
他的声音枯涩无力。
经济枯竭让人担忧。
她的创作灵感枯竭了。
这片土地因缺水而枯荒。