俎
ancient sacrificial vessel; chopping block; surname
Meanings
3 senses · 6 examplesnoun
ancient sacrificial vessel for holding offerings (sheep, cattle, etc.)
archaicA key ritual implement in ancient Chinese ceremonies. Often appears in the compound 俎豆 (zǔdòu), referring to sacrificial vessels collectively.
As for matters concerning sacrificial ritual vessels, I have indeed heard of such things.
Holding the sacrificial vessel and following along is the proper ritual.
noun
ancient chopping block or board for cutting meat
archaicMost famously appears in the idiom 人为刀俎，我为鱼肉 (others are the knife and chopping block, while I am the fish and meat), meaning to be at the mercy of others.
Others are the knife and chopping block, while I am the fish and meat—why then should I decline?
Now they are the knife and chopping block, while we are the fish and meat.
noun
surname Zu
A rare Chinese surname.
Mr. Zu is an expert in this field.
This surname is pronounced Zu.