About
The character "献", meaning to offer or present, has a traditional form "獻". Its structure combines the semantic component "犬" (dog) on the right, indicating its original association with ritual offerings involving dogs, and the phonetic component "鬳" on the left in the traditional form. In the simplified form "献", the left component was replaced with "南", which serves a phonetic function in modern Mandarin. The character's earliest meanings were specifically tied to the act of presenting sacrificial animals, particularly dogs, in ceremonial contexts. Over time, its application broadened significantly to denote the general act of presenting or dedicating something, such as tribute, gifts, advice, or one's efforts, moving away from its initial ritual specificity.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他为社会贡献了很多。
孩子们向老师献上鲜花。
他自愿献出了自己的血液。
大家都在为项目成功献计献策。
这份礼物是我献给你的祝福。
科学家将研究成果献给了全人类。
总统在典礼上发表了献词。
他将一生献给了探索真理的事业。