贞
loyal; chaste; divination
Meanings
4 senses · 20 examplesadjective
loyal to principles; steadfast; unwavering
Describes moral integrity and constancy, often used in compound words like 忠贞 or 坚贞.
He is steadfast and loyal, deeply trusted by everyone.
The steadfast and unyielding revolutionary is admirable.
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This couple remained faithful in love for sixty years.
We must maintain a character of loyalty and integrity.
Ancient literati often used the steadfast pine as a metaphor for noble character.
adjective
chaste; virtuous (esp. regarding women in feudal ethics)
archaicHistorically used to describe female chastity and fidelity within feudal ethical systems; carries strong historical and cultural connotations.
The concept of chastity in feudal society was a shackle on women.
This chastity arch has a history of three hundred years.
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Ancient operas often featured images of chaste women and virtuous wives.
The concept of maintaining chastity is understood differently in various cultures.
She would rather die than lose her chastity.
proper noun
surname Zhen
Used as a family name.
The surname Zhen is relatively rare in China.
Mr. Zhen is a famous historian.
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There is a classmate in our class with the surname Zhen.
The genealogy of the Zhen family is well preserved.
May I ask your surname? My surname is Zhen.
verb
to divine; to practice divination
archaicArchaic usage found in classical texts, particularly regarding ancient Shang dynasty oracle bone inscriptions.
The Shang Dynasty often used turtle shells for divination.
The diviner was an official responsible for divination in ancient times.
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Oracle bone inscriptions recorded much content about divination.
Before ancient wars, divination was always performed to ask about good or bad fortune.
This divination method is called zhen.