瑚
coral; ritual vessel
Meanings
2 senses · 10 examplesbound form
coral
formalAlmost exclusively used in the compound word 珊瑚 (coral). It does not appear alone with this meaning.
Beautiful coral reefs are formed by countless coral polyps.
This aquarium keeps some tropical corals.
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Coral is a vital component of the marine ecosystem.
She made a necklace out of coral.
Rising sea temperatures can cause coral bleaching.
bound form
ancient ritual jade vessel
archaicUsed almost exclusively in the classical term 瑚琏 (hú liǎn), which metaphorically refers to a person of great talent capable of shouldering important responsibilities.
Confucius praised Zigong as a vessel like the hulian (a metaphor for a person of great caliber).
In ancient times, the hulian was an important ritual vessel.
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He is seen as the pillar of the company, capable of shouldering great responsibilities.
The idiom 'hulian zhi qi' is a metaphor for talent capable of great tasks.
This article compares that general to the nation's pillar.