Definitions

chún (bound form) quail

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound. Simplified form of .

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The simplified character derives from the traditional . It combines the semantic component (bird) on the right, indicating a bird, and the phonetic component on the left, giving the pronunciation. The character denotes the quail, a small ground-nesting game bird of the pheasant family known for its distinctive calls and behavior. In classical Chinese literature and poetry, the quail often appears as a metaphor for rustic life, ragged clothing, or humble circumstances, inspired by its modest plumage and habit of scurrying through underbrush.