Definitions

chéng surname

Etymology phono-semantic

gold

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

(traditional: ) is a phono-semantic compound with the metal radical (from , signifying metals, tools, or precious materials) on the left and the phonetic component on the right, which gives the character its pronunciation while creating a balanced horizontal structure. Unlike most characters, serves almost exclusively as a personal name and has no independent meaning in general vocabulary. The metal radical, however, often carries connotations of strength, durability, or wealth when used in names. It exemplifies the practice of creating characters solely for genealogical or nominal purposes, providing unique identifiers within family lineages.

Etymology Hide

Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern