Definitions
Etymology
Depicts a bell-shaped musical instrument. The current meaning of 南 is a phonetic loan.
About
The character 南 in its modern form comprises 十 (ten), an enclosure 冂, and an internal component resembling a simplified 羊 (sheep), though this analysis masks its original etymology. Historically, it depicted a hanging percussion instrument or bell used in regional music, but was later borrowed for its sound to represent a cardinal direction. Consequently, it lost its musical association and became the standard term for south. Today, it denotes southern regions, compass points, and things from the south, fully detached from the physical object it once portrayed.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
南方很暖和。
我家住在城南。
他一直往南走。
南方的水果很甜。
南京是座古老的城市。
这个房间窗户朝南。
海南岛的风景特别美。
南美洲有很多热带雨林。