become immortal; pass away (euph.); emerge (insect)
Meanings
3 senses · 7 examplesverb
to ascend to immortality; to become a xian (Taoist immortal)
literaryFrom Taoist philosophy, describing the transformation into an immortal being and ascension to heaven. Literally 'to transform into feathers/wings,' implying the ability to fly.
Taoism believes that practitioners can eventually ascend to immortality.
Legend has it that immortals fly up to the celestial realm after their transformation.
verb
to pass away (euphemism for the death of a Taoist)
euphemismA polite, indirect term used within Taoism to refer to the death of a practitioner. Implies the soul has ascended to immortality rather than perished.
The master passed away yesterday, and the disciples are grief-stricken.
Taoists refer to death as 'ascension,' meaning the soul rises to heaven.
verb
to emerge (from a pupa); to eclose; to hatch into an adult insect
technicalEntomological term for the final molt when an insect transforms from pupa to adult and emerges from the cocoon or pupal case. Can also be used as a noun (羽化率).
The butterfly is emerging, crawling out from the pupa.
The eclosion rate is an important indicator for measuring insect reproduction.
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Observing the emergence process of silkworms is very interesting.