About
蠹 is a noun that originally referred to wood-boring insects, bookworms, and moths that consume and destroy organic materials. The radical 虫 at the base classifies it strictly as an insect or creeping creature. The upper part, an enclosure containing the tree element (木), evokes insects boring into and slowly devouring wood or books from the inside. Over time, the literal meaning naturally gave rise to a figurative verb: to erode, corrupt, or destroy a system internally. This usage is common in historical and political texts to describe corrupt officials who secretly bring ruin to a state.
Etymology Hide
Report an issue
Flag incorrect definitions, examples, etymology, etc.