phoenix; mythical bird; auspicious symbol
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
phoenix; a mythical king of birds in Chinese legend
literaryA divine bird in Chinese mythology, often contrasted with the Western phoenix. The male is called '凤' (fèng), and the female is called '凰' (huáng).
The phoenix is a symbol of good fortune and harmony.
The mythical phoenix is said to have brilliantly colored feathers.
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This painting depicts a phoenix soaring with its wings spread.
noun
a symbol of auspiciousness and prosperity
literaryCommonly used metaphorically to represent auspicious events, prosperity, nobility, or a perfect match (as in '龙凤呈祥').
'Dragon and phoenix bring auspiciousness' is a common theme in traditional Chinese weddings.
This city is hailed as a golden phoenix that flew out of the mountain ravine (metaphor for a place that achieved great success from humble beginnings).
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She is wearing a hairpin shaped like a phoenix.