Definitions

qīn fleet horse

Etymology

About

, the simplified form of traditional , is a phono-semantic compound. Its left-side radical () marks the character as belonging to the semantic field of horses and equine actions, while the right-hand component serves as the phonetic, providing the sound. The character's basic meaning is a horse running swiftly or galloping, capturing the sense of rapid motion. Owing to this association with speed and equine agility, it commonly appears in literary language to convey swift advancement, the quick passage of time, or the sight of horses dashing in tandem.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern