About
The character "涎" is structurally composed of the water radical on the left, denoting its association with liquid, and the component "延" on the right, which primarily serves a phonetic function while possibly reinforcing connotations of extension or flow. Etymologically, it has consistently denoted saliva or drool, a meaning evident in classical texts where it described physical secretion. Over time, while retaining this core definition, the character acquired metaphorical layers, most notably in compound expressions like "垂涎", which evolved to signify covetousness or intense desire, thereby extending its semantic range beyond the purely physiological. Its graphical form has maintained this fundamental composition without significant alteration, preserving the direct link between its structural parts and its enduring literal and figurative meanings.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
婴儿经常流涎。
他睡觉时流涎。
看到草莓蛋糕我垂涎。
这只狗对着肉流涎。
婴儿的涎水弄湿了衣服。
他忍不住对新车垂涎。
看到如此精美的艺术品，他不禁垂涎。
长期流涎可能是健康问题的征兆。