Definitions

biān to stir-fry before broiling or stewing

Etymology phono-semantic

fire

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

is a phono-semantic compound that functions as a specialized culinary verb. It pairs the fire radical on the left, indicating a cooking method, with the phonetic element on the right. The character names a specific stir-frying technique in Chinese cuisine: ingredients are stir-fried until all their moisture evaporates, often as a preliminary step before adding sauces or broths. Because its meaning is so closely tied to this precise culinary process, has no metaphorical or extended meanings beyond the kitchen.