About
The character 姜 has a history that begins with its use as a pictogram representing a specific plant, originally denoting the rhizome we know as ginger. Its structure, composed of the component 羊 (sheep) placed above 女 (woman), suggests a phonetic association where 羊 indicated the sound, while the 女 component is less clearly defined in its original contribution, though some interpretations link it to the idea of a plant cultivated or used by people. Over time, this character became predominantly employed as a prominent Chinese surname, tracing its lineage to legendary ancient rulers and forming one of the great historic clans, while its original botanical meaning was largely maintained but became a secondary, more specific application. In its journey, the traditional form 姜 remains in use alongside a simplified form where the 羊 component is replaced by 丷 and 王, fundamentally altering its structural composition but not severing its historical connections.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我在汤里放了姜。
喝姜茶可以暖身。
姜是一种常见的调料。
这道菜需要姜和蒜。
姜的味道有点辛辣。
姜先生是位老师。
姜的药用价值很高。
姜维是三国时期的名将。