Definitions

líng tail feathers; plume

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character 翎, signifying a feather or plume, is etymologically derived from the semantic element 羽, meaning 'feather,' paired with the phonetic element 令, which provides auditory guidance, and this structural composition has persisted without major modification. Its meaning has historically centered on the large, firm feathers of birds, particularly those employed in the fletching of arrows or as decorative accents in headdresses and costumes, and though its usage has become more specialized over centuries, the fundamental association with avian feathers remains intact.

Etymology Hide

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

Example Sentences Hide

这根羽毛很漂亮。

Zhè gēn yǔmáo hěn piǎoliang.

This feather is very beautiful.

鸟的羽在阳光下闪光。

Niǎo de língyǔ zài yángguāng xià shǎnguāng.

The bird's plumage glitters in the sunlight.

他帽子上的孔雀很显眼。

Tā màozi shàng de kǒngquè líng hěn xiǎnyǎn.

The peacock feather on his hat is very eye-catching.

这件戏服用彩色毛装饰。

Zhè jiàn xìfú yòng cǎisè língmáo zhuāngshì.

This stage costume is decorated with colored plumes.

古代官员的帽饰会用花

Gǔdài guānyuán de mào shì huì yòng huālíng.

Ancient officials' hat ornaments would use peacock feathers.

她用翠鸟的羽制作工艺品。

Tā yòng cuìniǎo de língyǔ zhìzuò gōngyìpǐn.

She uses kingfisher feathers to make handicrafts.

雄鸟的尾通常更加华丽。

Xióng niǎo de wěi líng tōngcháng gèngjiā huálì.

The tail feathers of male birds are usually more magnificent.

博物馆展出了一顶清朝的冠。

Bówùguǎn zhǎnchūle yī dǐng Qīngcháo de líng guān.

The museum displayed a Qing dynasty feathered crown.