About
The character "跚" is composed of the semantic component 足 (foot), which categorizes it as relating to movement or the feet, and the phonetic component 册, which historically suggested its pronunciation. Its primary meaning, to walk haltingly or with a limp, is directly implied by its structure, depicting an irregular or hindered gait. Etymologically, it is closely associated with the word "蹒跚", a disyllabic term describing a staggering, unsteady walk, and this connection has remained its core function in the language. Over time, its usage has stabilized almost exclusively within this coupled form, with the character itself seldom appearing independently, thereby cementing its role in depicting a specific, labored manner of movement.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
老人走路蹒跚。
小孩学步时蹒跚。
他喝醉后脚步蹒跚。
在冰上行走容易蹒跚。
受伤的运动员蹒跚着离开球场。
尽管腿疼，他仍蹒跚前行。
夜幕中，一个黑影蹒跚地穿过街道。
经济衰退后，许多企业蹒跚在破产边缘。