Definitions

líng (adjective) tinkling; clear and resonant sound

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "玲" is structured with the jade radical on the left, indicating its material association, and the phonetic component "令" on the right, guiding its pronunciation. Initially representing the clear, ringing sound produced by jade ornaments, its meaning gradually extended beyond auditory qualities to describe visual and conceptual delicacy, particularly within the compound "玲珑", which conveys notions of exquisite and ingenious design. This shift from a specific sonic reference to a broader aesthetic application demonstrates how the character's semantic scope expanded while its compositional elements remained consistent.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

是我的同学。

Zhāng Líng shì wǒ de tóngxué.

Zhang Ling is my classmate.

有一个可爱的玩具。

Língling yǒu yī gè kě'ài de wánjù.

Lingling has a cute toy.

她的名字叫王

Tā de míngzi jiào Wáng Líng.

Her name is Wang Ling.

她的声音很珑。

Tā de shēngyīn hěn línglóng.

Her voice is very clear and melodious.

这个小铃铛珑剔透。

Zhège xiǎo língdang línglóng tītòu.

This small bell is exquisitely made.

珑的身材很适合跳舞。

Tā línglóng de shēncái hěn shìhé tiàowǔ.

Her petite and graceful figure is very suitable for dancing.

那块玉石雕刻得珑别致。

Nà kuài yùshí diāokè dé línglóng biézhì.

That piece of jade is carved exquisitely and uniquely.

这件工艺品的珑精巧令人赞叹不已。

Zhè jiàn gōngyìpǐn de línglóng jīngqiǎo lìng rén zàntàn bùyǐ.

The exquisite delicacy of this handicraft makes people marvel endlessly.