Definitions

bēn surname Ben
bēn energetic
bright

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound. Based on the original meaning "adornment". The current meaning is a phonetic loan.

About

The simplified character 贲 derives from the traditional 賁, with the plant component 卉 atop the shell radical 贝, which historically symbolized value. It carries two distinct meanings based on pronunciation. One refers to bright adornment or elegant decoration, evoking the visual appeal of precious shells and plants. The other denotes energy, bravery, or forceful forward movement, often used in classical texts to describe courageous warriors or swift action.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern