虸
son; seed; small; first earthly branch; master
Meanings
11 senses · 24 examplesnoun
son; child
Originally referred to children of both sexes in classical Chinese, now specifically refers to son.
He is my only son.
Parents always worry about their children.
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The eldest son inherits the family business.
noun
person
Refers to a person, often used in compounds.
A man should have a sense of responsibility.
Women can also hold up half the sky.
noun
learned man; master; gentleman
archaicArchaic respectful term for learned men or teachers.
Confucius was a great thinker in ancient China.
The thoughts of the Hundred Schools of Thought had profound influence.
pronoun
you (honorific)
archaicUsed in classical Chinese as an honorific 'you', especially for teachers or respected persons.
The Master said: Is it not a pleasure to learn and practice what you learn?
Where are you going, sir?
noun
the first of the twelve Earthly Branches
technicalUsed in traditional Chinese calendar and time-keeping systems.
Zi, Chou, Yin, Mao are the first four of the Earthly Branches.
The year of Jiazi is the first year in the sexagenary cycle.
noun
the period from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Refers to the first double-hour period in the traditional Chinese time system.
The zi hour is the time when yin and yang alternate.
He goes to sleep at the zi hour every day.
noun
viscount (fourth rank of nobility)
archaicHistorical term for the fourth of the five ranks of Chinese nobility (duke, marquis, earl, viscount, baron).
Duke, marquis, earl, viscount, and baron were the five ranks of nobility in ancient times.
noun
seed
Refers to seeds of plants.
These melon seeds can be planted in the soil.
Rapeseed oil is pressed from rapeseeds.
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The seeds of this flower are very small.
adjective
small; young; tender
Describes something small, young, or tender, often used in compounds.
Young livestock need careful attention.
This young ginger is very tender.
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The young fish have not yet grown up.
measure word
measure word for slender things
Classifier for bundles of slender things that can be held between fingers.
Give me a hank of thread.
A lock of her hair fell out.
proper noun
surname
Used as a family name.
Confucius's surname was Zi.
Mr. Zi is the person in charge here.