Definitions
Etymology
Originally written the same as 矢 (arrow). Later two hands (𦥑) were added to distinguish the characters.
About
The character 寅 (yín) primarily functions as the third of the twelve Earthly Branches, a traditional system used for ordering time and direction in calendars and compasses. Its modern form has the roof radical 宀 (mián) atop components etymologically linked to an arrow or weapon being straightened, though it now resembles 一 (yī), 由 (yóu), and 八 (bā) stacked. In the Chinese zodiac, 寅 corresponds to the tiger, and in timekeeping it marks the two-hour period from 3:00 AM to 5:00 AM, just before dawn. On a traditional compass, it indicates the east-northeast direction, serving as a key marker for organizing temporal and spatial information.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
现在是寅时，天还没亮。
据说他是寅年出生的。
爷爷在寅时就起床锻炼了。
古代用天干地支纪年，今年是寅年。
这位将军姓寅，是一个罕见的姓氏。
在十二生肖中，寅对应的是老虎。
根据农历，下一个寅年将在几年后到来。
地支中的寅与方位中的东北偏东相关联。