爷
father; grandfather; respectful term for men
Meanings
5 senses · 25 examplesnoun
father (dialectal usage)
dialectUsed in certain dialects, often in compound words like 爷娘 (parents).
His parents both dote on him very much.
My father is sixty years old this year.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
Father and son work together in the fields.
He grew up without a father from childhood, raised by his mother.
The kindness of parents' nurturing is unforgettable for life.
noun
grandfather (paternal)
Refers specifically to one's paternal grandfather. Often reduplicated as 爷爷.
My grandfather is very healthy and hale.
Grandfather and grandson are taking a walk in the park.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
He grew up with his grandfather from childhood.
Grandfather taught me how to write with a brush pen.
Grandfather's stories could be told for three days and nights without finishing.
noun
respectful term for elder men or superiors
formalUsed as a suffix in forms like 大爷, 李爷, etc. Conveys respect but can also imply social hierarchy.
Master Li, please take the seat of honor.
This old gentleman is really warm-hearted.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
Fourth Master, how come you have free time to come today?
Everyone here respects Master Wang.
Sir, may I ask how to get to the station?
noun
master; lord; sir (for officials or rich men in old times)
archaicHistorical usage reflecting social hierarchy in feudal or pre-modern society. Often carries connotations of privilege or authority.
Who dares disobey what the master orders?
In the old society, common people feared seeing officials.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
The county magistrate opened court to hear the case.
The masters are all drinking tea in the parlor.
He puts on airs like a master, never doing anything himself.
noun
god; deity; lord (suffix for supernatural beings)
neutralUsed in folk religion and mythology as a respectful suffix for various gods and deities.
Villagers burned incense in front of the Earth God's temple.
The King of Hell controls the cycle of life and death.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
Quickly make offerings to the God of Wealth.
On the 23rd of the twelfth lunar month, we must worship the Kitchen God.
May Heaven bless us with safety.