About
The character "玺", derived from the traditional form "璽", etymologically combines the phonetic component "爾" with the radical "玉" for jade, a structure that originally highlighted the precious materials used in crafting authoritative seals. Its meaning gradually narrowed from a broad term for various seals to one specifically denoting imperial sigils, reflecting the concentration of power in historical governance structures. The simplified form "玺" retains the "玉" radical but replaces "爾" with "尔", streamlining the character while preserving its association with valued objects of authentication. In contemporary contexts, although it refers to seals generally, the character continues to evoke the historical weight of sovereign legitimacy and formal certification.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这块玉玺非常古老。
玉玺是古代皇帝的印章。
博物馆里陈列着一方金玺。
他在古籍中读到了传国玉玺的故事。
考古学家希望能找到失踪的玉玺。
这方玉玺的发现震惊了历史学界。
玉玺不仅是一件文物，更是权力的象征。
经过专家鉴定，这方玺印确属秦代文物。