Definitions

(noun) nest; den; lair
(noun) pit or hollow on the body
(verb) to shelter; to harbor
(verb) to bend; to curl up

Etymology phono-semantic

cave

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "窝", with its traditional form "窩", is etymologically constructed from the radical "穴" indicating a cave or hollow, combined with the component "咼" which primarily functions as a phonetic element while subtly reinforcing the notion of a curved or enclosed space. Initially encompassing the general idea of cavities or depressions, its meaning gradually specialized to denote the nests of birds or the dens of animals, later extending metaphorically to human residences, hideaways, or any location where items are collected or stored. Structurally, the simplified form "窝" maintains the "穴" radical but streamlines the phonetic part to "呙", preserving both the pronunciation and the fundamental concept of a sheltered enclosure. Over centuries, the semantic range of the character broadened to include verbal senses such as to harbor or to curl up, reflecting a shift from purely physical references to abstract associations with security and accumulation.

Example Sentences Hide

小鸟在里睡觉。

Xiǎo niǎo zài wō lǐ shuìjiào.

The little bird is sleeping in the nest.

我躺在被里。

Wǒ tǎng zài bèiwō lǐ.

I am lying in the bedding.

很温暖。

Gǒu wō hěn wēnnuǎn.

The dog's den is very warm.

在沙发里。

Tā wō zài shāfā lǐ.

He is curled up on the sofa.

藏了罪犯。

Tā wōcáng le zuìfàn.

He harbored a criminal.

这个鸟筑在树上。

Zhège niǎo wō zhù zài shù shàng.

This bird's nest is built on the tree.

冬天里,被是最舒服的地方。

Dōngtiān lǐ, bèiwō shì zuì shūfu de dìfāng.

In winter, the bedding is the most comfortable place.

他心里着一团火。

Tā xīnli wō zhe yī tuán huǒ.

He harbors a fire of anger in his heart.