𬱦
ancient exorcism mask; ugly
Meanings
2 senses · 4 examplesnoun
ancient exorcism mask; grotesque mask worn by impersonators of deities during pestilence-driving rituals
archaicAn archaic term referring specifically to the hideous masks used in ceremonial exorcism practices (傩 nuó) to ward off evil spirits and disease. Primarily found in classical texts and historical contexts.
The Fangxiang Shi (exorcist) covered himself with a bearskin, had four golden eyes, wore black upper garments and red skirts, brandished a spear and raised a shield, leading a hundred subordinates in seasonal exorcism rites to search rooms and expel pestilence. The mask he wore is sometimes called a 'qī'.
In ancient exorcism dances, the performers wore 'qī' masks.
adjective
ugly; grotesque
literaryA literary and archaic adjective describing extreme ugliness or a repulsive appearance, likely deriving from the hideous nature of the exorcism mask. Marked as 〈书〉 (literary) in the source.
His appearance was extremely ugly, startling all who saw him.
The description is hideously ugly, unbearable to look at.