Definitions
(noun,adjective)
red; cinnabar
(noun)
pellet; pill
Etymology
Depicts a chunk of cinnabar found in a well for mining.
About
The character "丹" originated as a pictogram for cinnabar, a red mineral, with its structure consisting of a rectangular frame enclosing a dot or stroke to represent the ore within a mining pit or container. Etymologically, it initially denoted the mineral itself, which was historically significant for producing vermilion pigment and in alchemical traditions. Its meaning later expanded to encompass the color red in general, leading to metaphorical uses in compounds such as "丹心", where it conveys loyalty or sincerity through the association with a red heart. The character's form has not been subject to simplification, and its modern composition does not break down into functional components, retaining its basic pictographic outline.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
丹顶鹤是一种美丽的鸟。
这片丹霞地貌色彩斑斓。
练习气功时要意守丹田。
他对祖国怀有一片赤诚的丹心。
古代方士常常炼制药丹。
这幅画用丹青描绘了山水。
丹砂在古代曾用作颜料和药物。
考古学家分析了丹药的化学成分。