璇
beautiful jade; ancient astronomical instrument
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesnoun
beautiful jade; fine precious jade
literaryLiterary term for high-quality jade, often used in classical texts and poetry. The character combines the jade radical (王) with 旋 (xuán), suggesting the revolving or precious nature of the stone.
In ancient legends, xuan was a type of rare and beautiful jade.
This palace is decorated with jade-inlaid headers and jade steps, extremely magnificent.
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He wears a piece of warm, lustrous xuan jade.
noun
xuanji; ancient Chinese astronomical instrument; the Big Dipper
technicalSpecifically refers to the 'xuanji', an important component of ancient Chinese astronomical instruments (armillary spheres). Also refers to the first four stars of the Big Dipper (the bowl). A highly specialized literary term.
The xuanji was an important component of the ancient Chinese armillary sphere.
The astronomical records state: 'With the xuanji and yuheng, regulate the seven governors [planets].'