Definitions

cuǐ luster of gems

Etymology phono-semantic

jade

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

is a phono-semantic compound: the left side is the jade radical (originally ), linking it to precious stones and their luster, while the right side gives the sound and originally meant "towering mountain", lending a connotation of grandeur. The character denotes the dazzling brilliance of jade, pearls, and other gems catching the light. It rarely stands alone, occurring almost exclusively in compounds that describe starry nights, glittering jewels, or radiant human achievements.

Etymology Hide

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