Definitions

pào (verb) to soak; to steep; to infuse
pào (noun) bubble; foam; blister
pāo (adjective) swollen; spongy

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "泡" structurally integrates the water radical (氵) with the component 包, which provides phonetic indication and contributes the idea of something wrapped or enveloped, pointing to its core meaning of bubbles or spherical forms in liquid. Historically denoting physical phenomena like foam or blisters, its semantic range expanded to include verbal senses such as to soak or steep, reflecting a shift from describing states to actions involving water. While its compositional elements have remained consistent, the character's applications broadened to encompass various contexts related to liquid-filled or air-pocketed forms.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

我喜欢吹

Wǒ xǐhuān chuī pàopao.

I like blowing bubbles.

他每天都会茶。

Tā měitiān dōu huì pào chá.

He makes tea every day.

我晚上经常吃面。

Wǒ wǎnshang jīngcháng chī pàomiàn.

I often eat instant noodles at night.

她喜欢热水澡。

Tā xǐhuān pào rèshuǐ zǎo.

She likes taking hot baths.

把衣服浸在水中。

Bǎ yīfú jìnpào zài shuǐ zhōng.

Soak the clothes in water.

他会很好的咖啡。

Tā huì pào hěn hǎo de kāfēi.

He can brew very good coffee.

他们周末去酒吧。

Tāmen zhōumò qù pào jiǔbā.

They go to hang out at bars on weekends.

我们的计划汤了。

Wǒmen de jìhuà pàotāng le.

Our plan fell through.