About
楷 is a phono-semantic compound: the left-side component 木 conveys the meaning 'wood' or 'tree', while the right-side component 皆 indicates the pronunciation. Etymologically, the character first named a specific straight-growing tree with sturdy branches that were employed as measuring implements and physical templates in woodworking. From this literal wooden template, the meaning metaphorically broadened to signify any model, standard, or exemplary pattern of behavior. Eventually, it became the established term for regular script (楷書), the squared, highly legible, and standardized style of Chinese character writing.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
楷书很工整。
他在练楷书。
楷书是汉字字体。
老师教我们楷书。
他的楷书写得很好。
我们应该学习楷模。
这位科学家是大家的楷模。
楷体在印刷中常用。
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