Definitions

xiǎn barefooted

Etymology phono-semantic

foot

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

is primarily a verb or adjective meaning barefoot or walking without any footwear. Its left radical (foot) establishes a semantic link to feet and walking, while the right component serves as the phonetic indicator. In classical literature, historical texts, and poetry, this character frequently appears in depictions of extreme haste, dire poverty, or ceremonial customs that strictly required removing shoes. The meaning is always literal, referring exclusively to the bare physical state of the feet.

Etymology Hide

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