About
Composed of the radical 女 for "woman" and the component 眉 for "eyebrow", the character "媚" etymologically suggests a form of allure or persuasion linked to feminine expression, particularly through the eyes, with its structure highlighting a conceptual blend of gender and physical gesture. Initially denoting actions or qualities that pleased or charmed, often in a sense of graceful favor, the term was commonly used in classical texts to describe flattering behavior or attractive demeanor. Over time, its connotations shifted toward more intentional and artful forms of appeal, gradually emphasizing insincere adulation or coaxing seduction, which added a layer of negativity to its earlier neutral or positive usages. This semantic expansion allowed the character to encompass a range of meanings from aesthetic admiration to manipulative ingratiation, reflecting evolving social nuances around influence and desire without abandoning its core association with cultivated charm.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
她的笑容很妩媚。
他谄媚地笑着。
她的媚眼让人心动。
这幅画展现了自然的妩媚。
不要用谄媚的态度对待上司。
她的娇媚姿态吸引了所有人的目光。
这种媚俗的艺术作品缺乏深度。
在商业广告中，媚俗的元素常常被用来吸引大众。