Definitions

náo (verb) to scratch
náo (verb) to thwart; to interfere with
náo (verb) to yield; to give in

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound. Simplified form of .

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "挠" finds its origins in a composite structure featuring the hand radical, denoting manual action, coupled with a phonetic component that in its traditional form "堯" suggested both sound and a connotation of disturbance or height, leading to early meanings involving agitation or bending. Over time, its applications shifted from general acts of stirring or disrupting toward more defined usages, such as the specific physical act of scratching and the metaphorical sense of hindrance or obstruction. The simplified form "挠" preserves the hand radical while adapting the phonetic element, yet the character's historical connection to concepts of manual intervention and impediment remains evident through its continued use in contexts ranging from physical itch relief to figurative obstruction.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

我在痒痒。

Wǒ zài náo yǎngyang.

I am scratching an itch.

那个伤口。

Bié náo nàgè shāngkǒu.

Don't scratch that wound.

小猫喜欢沙发。

Xiǎo māo xǐhuan náo shāfā.

The kitten likes to scratch the sofa.

这个问题让我头。

Zhège wèntí ràng wǒ náo tóu.

This problem makes me scratch my head.

发痒的鼻子。

Tā náo le náo fāyǎng de bízi.

He scratched his itchy nose.

痒可以暂时缓解不适。

Náo yǎng kěyǐ zànshí huǎnjiě bùshì.

Scratching can temporarily relieve discomfort.

没有人能阻他的决定。

Méiyǒu rén néng zǔnáo tā de juédìng.

No one can hinder his decision.

持续的抓会导致皮肤损伤。

Chíxù de náozhuā huì dǎozhì pífū sǔnshāng.

Persistent scratching can lead to skin damage.