About
As a phono-semantic compound, 鼙 pairs 鼓, the radical for 'drum' that classifies the word as denoting a percussion instrument for musical and military use, with the phonetic component 卑, which gives the pronunciation. Its meaning is a small cavalry drum, employed on horseback to transmit commands and coordinate troop actions. Over time, the term has never strayed from this historical noun; it remains exclusively the name for that drum and has not acquired the general senses of rhythm or music.
Etymology Hide
Report an issue
Flag incorrect definitions, examples, etymology, etc.