Definitions

lóng (dialect) tool used to hull rice (similar to a grain mill); (dialect) to hull rice using this tool

Etymology phono-semantic

stone

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character 砻, with its traditional form 礱, structurally combines the semantic component 石 (stone) with the component 龍 (dragon), which likely functioned as a phonetic indicator. This configuration suggests an initial connection to stone implements used for grinding, such as millstones or pestles. The character's meaning has consistently centered on the action of grinding or polishing, particularly in agricultural and tool-sharpening contexts, without substantial semantic deviation over time.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern