About
The character 紫, denoting the color purple, is etymologically derived from its components: the silk radical 糸 and the phonetic element 此, reflecting its origin in the dyeing of fabrics where it specifically indicated a hue produced from certain organic dyes. Initially describing that spectral shade, the term gradually acquired symbolic meanings of nobility and high rank due to the scarcity and expense of purple pigments in ancient societies. This association with prestige is embedded in historical compounds such as 紫禁城, where it alludes to the celestial purple star of Chinese cosmology, thus linking the color with imperial authority. While its core definition as a color has remained constant, these layered cultural connotations have extended its use beyond mere description into domains of status and symbolism within the language.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这件衣服是紫色的。
她买了一个紫色的包。
葡萄是紫色的水果。
紫色的花朵很美丽。
傍晚的天空呈现紫色。
这种紫色颜料很昂贵。
紫菜汤是一道家常菜。
紫外线对皮肤有伤害。