Definitions
(adjective)
worthy; virtuous
(noun)
person of virtue or talent
Etymology phono-semantic
money
Semantic:
贝
About
The character "贤" finds its origin in the traditional form "賢", which structurally integrates "臣" suggesting servitude or officialdom with "貝" representing currency or value, thereby initially denoting a person of substantial wealth or practical usefulness. Over time, its meaning shifted from material affluence to emphasize abstract qualities of moral integrity and superior capability, a transition evident in classical literature where it described individuals of wisdom and ethical stature. The simplified construction "贤" preserves this essential concept, with the component "又" acting primarily as a phonetic element and "贝" echoing the foundational notion of worth, though the term's semantic field is now firmly centered on virtuous talent and exemplary character.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
她是一位贤惠的妻子。
他的贤能得到了大家的认可。
这位领导非常贤明。
我们都应该向贤者学习。
他的贤德行为影响了很多人。
公司需要招聘贤才来发展业务。
在历史上，许多贤人都对社会做出了巨大贡献。
尽管他出身平凡，但凭借自己的贤能和努力，最终成为了受人尊敬的领袖。