Definitions
(old) neodymium; neptunium (chemistry)
Etymology
About
The character 釢 combines the metal radical 金 (jīn) with the phonetic 乃 (nǎi). Ancient dictionaries record it as a very obscure character meaning to tie or bind, though the link to the metal radical is ambiguous, perhaps hinting at a metal wire or fastener. In modern times, it was adopted as an early alternative translation for the element neodymium, before the standard 釹 (nǚ) was established. This repurposing follows a common pattern: obsolete characters with the right radical and phonetic are resurrected for scientific terminology.
Report an issue
Flag incorrect definitions, examples, etymology, etc.