About
The character 蟾, formed by the insect radical 虫 combined with the phonetic element 詹, has consistently referred to the toad, most commonly in the compound 蟾蜍. Its structure follows the typical phono-semantic pattern where the radical classifies it as a creature while the component provides a clue to its pronunciation. Originally denoting the amphibian itself, the term gradually acquired broader symbolic meanings, particularly in classical poetry and mythology where it became associated with the moon through the legendary toad said to inhabit it, giving rise to such expressions as 蟾宫 for the lunar palace. This evolution reflects a shift from a purely zoological reference to a richer cultural symbol, all while retaining its fundamental link to the toad.
Example Sentences Hide
池塘里有一只蟾蜍。
蟾蜍是一种有益动物。
传说月亮上住着玉蟾。
科学家在观察蟾的习性。
这只蟾蜍趴在荷叶上一动不动。
古人常用蟾宫来代指月亮。
在显微镜下观察了蟾的细胞结构。
那片湿地为多种蟾类提供了栖息地。