five elements (metal, wood, water, fire, earth); wuxing
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesnoun
the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire, and earth); five phases
A fundamental concept in ancient Chinese philosophy used to explain the composition and changes of the universe. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it explains physiological functions and pathological relationships between organs. Also used in feng shui and fortune-telling through cycles of generation (相生) and overcoming (相克).
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the five elements correspond to the internal organs of the human body.
The theory of the mutual generation and overcoming of the five elements is an important component of ancient Chinese philosophy.
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The fortune-teller said that he lacks the fire element in his birth chart and needs to wear more red clothes.
Metal, wood, water, fire, and earth are collectively called the five elements.