About
The character 湎 is a phono-semantic compound meaning to be deeply intoxicated, or metaphorically, to indulge excessively in any habit. Its structure combines the water radical 氵 on the left, indicating liquids and thus alcoholic drink, with 面 on the right, providing the pronunciation. The character evokes the image of a flushed face or complete immersion in drunkenness. It appears chiefly in formal or historical texts cautioning against rulers or individuals surrendering to physical pleasures or intemperance.
Etymology Hide
