softly swaying; reluctant to part
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesadjective
soft and swaying (of slender branches)
literaryLiterary usage, often describing willows or delicate branches. Originates from the Classic of Poetry (Shījīng): '昔我往矣，杨柳依依' (When I left here, the willows were softly swaying).
When I left here, the willows were softly swaying in the wind.
The weeping willows by the shore swayed gently, their posture extremely graceful.
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The willow branches swayed softly, dancing with the wind.
adjective
reluctant to part; lingering; fondly attached
formalCommonly used in set phrases such as 依依不舍 (yīyībùshě). Describes emotional attachment when parting.
They bid farewell reluctantly, loath to part.
At the time of parting, the two lingered fondly, reluctant to say goodbye.
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There was a lingering feeling of attachment in my heart.
On graduation day, everyone found it hard to part with the campus.