About
鲰 (traditional 鯫) is a phono-semantic compound combining the fish radical 鱼 with the phonetic 取. It literally denotes small fish, minnows, or similarly insignificant aquatic creatures of little value. From this notion of physical smallness and worthlessness, the meaning metaphorically extended to describe a person as petty, narrow-minded, or of low social standing. This derogatory or self-deprecating usage appears in classical historical and literary texts, where it could be employed humbly for oneself or dismissively to characterize political opponents as trifling and inconsequential.
Etymology Hide
Report an issue
Flag incorrect definitions, examples, etymology, etc.