About
The character "蛀" has consistently represented the action of insects, particularly moth or worm larvae, boring into and damaging materials like wood, grain, or cloth. Its etymology is transparently illustrated in its structure, which combines the "虫" (insect) radical with the phonetic and semantic component "主", the latter potentially implying the idea of being the primary agent or master of the destructive act. This core concept of insect-induced damage has remained stable throughout the character's history, with its traditional form, identical to its simplified version in this specific case, directly visualizing a destructive insect as the active subject. Over time, while its fundamental meaning is preserved, its application has extended metaphorically in words like "蛀牙" (tooth decay) to describe similar corrosive processes, even when not caused by literal insects.
Example Sentences Hide
我的牙齿有蛀牙。
蛀牙会引起牙痛。
他去看牙医治蛀牙。
预防蛀牙要勤刷牙。
木头被虫子蛀了。
这本书被蛀虫咬坏了。
长期不护理牙齿容易蛀牙。
蛀虫在树干里钻了许多洞。