Definitions

(verb) to stab; to pierce
(noun) thorn; sting
(verb) to assassinate
(onomatopoeia) (onom.) whoosh

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character 刺 derives from a compositional logic combining the thorn-related element 朿 with the knife radical 刂, thus inherently representing actions of piercing or stabbing through its graphic construction. Over time, its usage broadened from denoting physical penetration by sharp objects to include abstract applications like harsh criticism or political assassination, while simultaneously maintaining specific references in natural and medical domains such as animal quills or therapeutic needling. This expansion in semantic scope occurred without substantial alteration to the character's written form, allowing its etymological roots to remain visually apparent in its contemporary usage.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

玫瑰花上有

Méiguī huā shàng yǒu cì.

There are thorns on roses.

猬身上有很多

Cìwei shēnshang yǒu hěnduō cì.

Hedgehogs have many spines on their bodies.

他被扎伤了手。

Tā bèi cì zhā shāngle shǒu.

He pricked his hand with a thorn.

这个故事很激。

Zhège gùshi hěn cìjī.

This story is very exciting.

绣是一种传统工艺。

Cìxiù shì yī zhǒng chuántǒng gōngyì.

Embroidery is a traditional craft.

客突然出现在黑暗中。

Cìkè tūrán chūxiàn zài hēi'àn zhōng.

The assassin suddenly appeared in the darkness.

他的批评像一样扎心。

Tā de pīpíng xiàng cì yīyàng zhā xīn.

His criticism is like a thorn piercing the heart.

这种植物人的感觉很难受。

Zhè zhǒng zhíwù cì rén de gǎnjué hěn nánshòu.

The sensation of being pricked by this plant is very uncomfortable.