Definitions
(noun)
a bow
Etymology
Pictograph of a bow for shooting arrows.
About
The character 弓 originated as a pictographic representation of a strung bow, with the central curve depicting the body of the weapon and the endpoints suggesting its tips or the string. This form has remained largely consistent in its structure over millennia, serving as a standalone character meaning a bow for archery. Beyond its direct meaning, 弓 also functions as a semantic component in many other characters, typically imparting a sense of bending, curvature, or tension, as seen in characters like 引 (to pull) and 張 (to stretch). Over time, while its primary meaning as a physical weapon endured, its conceptual use expanded to describe anything with a similar arched shape, such as a bow in a violin or the curved frame of a traditional steelyard, thereby extending its application from martial tools into general objects and mechanics.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这是一把新的弓。
他喜欢拉弓射箭。
弓箭是古代武器。
弓弦需要定期更换。
那座桥呈弓形。
孩子们用弹弓打鸟。
运动员弯弓准备射击。
弓背的姿势不利于健康。