瑟
ancient stringed instrument; rustling sound
Meanings
2 senses · 10 examplesnoun
ancient Chinese stringed instrument similar to guqin
literaryTraditional classical instrument, now rarely used in formal performances except in traditional music revivals.
Confucius played the se, and all his disciples were moved by ritual.
The 25-string se was the classic form during the pre-Qin period.
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Painted se artifacts are often unearthed from Han Dynasty tombs.
Modern replica ses come in two versions: 16-string and 25-string.
The Book of Songs mentions the se classical instrument many times.
adjective
rustling; crisp; trembling sound
literaryUsed in literary and poetic contexts to describe wind, rain, or string instrument sounds.
The autumn wind rustles, and the leaves rustle softly.
The rustling drizzle wet the window lattice.
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She trembled with cold in the chilly wind.
The pipa's soft, trembling sounds tug at the heartstrings.
Rustling maples by the river, dotted fishing lanterns.