Definitions

huái (noun) Chinese scholar tree; Japanese pagoda tree

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "槐" for the locust tree is structured as a phono-semantic compound, integrating the wood radical (木) to signify its botanical classification and the component "鬼" primarily for phonetic guidance, though this element may also hint at early perceptions of the tree's mystical qualities. Etymologically, it designated the Sophora japonica in classical texts, a tree frequently planted in official enclosures, thereby accruing associations with bureaucratic prestige and high rank. While its core referent to the tree has remained constant, ancillary connotations broadened through literary use to embody ideals like scholarly integrity and moral steadfastness, all while the character's compositional form persisted without major alteration across the history of the script.

Etymology Hide

Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Warring States (~250 BC)
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)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

门口有棵大树。

Ménkǒu yǒu kē dà huáishù.

There is a big locust tree by the door.

春天,树开花了。

Chūntiān, huáishù kāihuā le.

In spring, the locust tree blossoms.

花的香味很好闻。

Huáihuā de xiāngwèi hěn hǎo wén.

The fragrance of the locust flowers is very pleasant.

我们在树下乘凉。

Wǒmen zài huáishù xià chéngliáng.

We are enjoying the cool under the locust tree.

古老的树见证了历史。

Gǔlǎo de huáishù jiànzhèng le lìshǐ.

The ancient locust tree has witnessed history.

树的叶子是椭圆形的。

Huáishù de yèzi shì tuǒyuán xíng de.

The leaves of the locust tree are oval-shaped.

荫如盖,遮住了烈日。

Huái yīn rú gài, zhē zhù le lièrì.

The locust tree's shade, like a canopy, blocks the scorching sun.

记忆中的小院飘着花香。

Jìyì zhōng de xiǎo yuàn piāo zhe huáihuā xiāng.

The scent of locust flowers wafts through the courtyard in my memory.