Definitions

to protect; cover; shelter; hide or harbor

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. 广 represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: 广 Phonetic:

About

The character "庇" derives its essence from the concept of shelter, constructed with the radical "广" representing a building or roof to convey the idea of cover, combined with the component "比" which primarily functions as a phonetic element. This structural composition has historically anchored the character's meaning in the act of providing protection or refuge, initially emphasizing physical covering from the elements or danger. Over time, its semantic range extended to include metaphorical and institutional forms of protection, such as legal patronage or spiritual blessing, yet the core notion of shielding from harm remained central. The character's form has been preserved without alteration, maintaining its direct visual link to the idea of sanctuary and guardianship throughout its use in the language.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

大树荫着我们。

Dà shù bìyìn zhe wǒmen.

The big tree shelters us.

这个组织护难民。

Zhège zǔzhī bìhù nànmín.

This organization shelters refugees.

在暴风雨中,小屋佑了我们。

Zài bàofēngyǔ zhōng, xiǎo wū bìyòu le wǒmen.

In the storm, the hut protected us.

政府提供护给受害者。

Zhèngfǔ tígōng bìhù gěi shòuhàizhě.

The government provides shelter to victims.

他的权力荫了整个家族。

Tā de quánlì bìyìn le zhěnggè jiāzú.

His power sheltered the entire family.

虽然环境艰苦,但友谊佑着我们前行。

Suīrán huánjìng jiānkǔ, dàn yǒuyì bìyòu zhe wǒmen qiánxíng.

Although the environment is tough, friendship protects us as we move forward.

国际社会应该共同护战争流亡者。

Guójì shèhuì yīnggāi gòngtóng bìhù zhànzhēng liúwángzhě.

The international community should jointly shelter war exiles.

在法律的荫下,公民的权利得到了充分保障。

Zài fǎlǜ de bìyìn xià, gōngmín de quánlì dédào le chōngfèn bǎozhàng.

Under the shelter of the law, citizens' rights are fully guaranteed.