About
The character 柱, denoting a pillar or column, is a phono-semantic compound consisting of the semantic component 木, indicating wood, and the phonetic component 主, which provides its sound. This structure has remained consistent, reflecting its original etymology as a term for wooden architectural supports. Over time, while retaining its primary meaning of a physical column, the character's usage broadened to encompass metaphorical senses, such as a mainstay or essential support in abstract contexts like social or conceptual systems. This semantic expansion from a concrete object to a figurative element illustrates the natural progression in the application of the character without altering its fundamental form.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这根柱子很粗。
圆柱形的积木很好玩。
他是球队的支柱球员。
喷泉的水柱很高。
这座建筑的柱子是石头的。
他的脊柱需要接受手术。
图表用柱状图显示数据。
文化是民族的精神支柱。