阃
threshold; women's quarters; women
Meanings
3 senses · 6 examplesnoun
threshold; door sill
literaryLiterary term for the threshold of a door, often used in classical texts to denote the entrance or boundary.
Ancient generals were often given authority beyond the frontier to defend the borders.
The height of the threshold reflects the master's social status.
noun
women's inner quarters; women's chambers
literaryRefers to the inner chambers where women lived in traditional Chinese households, often strictly separated from outer areas.
She lived deep within the inner chambers all her life, not concerning herself with worldly affairs.
Within the women's quarters, etiquette is strictly observed.
noun
women; feminine virtue (by metonymy)
literaryUsed to refer to women by metonymy, often in compounds describing feminine virtues, roles, or the moral standards expected of women in traditional society.
She carries herself with elegance, possessing the dignified demeanor expected of a noblewoman.
This lady possesses both feminine virtue and talent, commanding deep respect.