搂 (lǒu) - To hug, embrace, or hold closely & to gather up or collect

搂Tone 3

lǒu ｜ 12 strokes ｜ radical:

林伦

搂 · lǒu

To hug, embrace, or hold closely;

to gather up or collect;

to cuddle.

To hug, embrace, or hold closelyto gather up or collectto cuddle.

Usage highlights

Hug tightlyCuddle and hugGather upHold in one's armsPut arm around shoulder

Synonyms

  • 抱— to hold or embrace
  • 拥抱— to hug or embrace

Antonyms

  • 推— to push
  • 放— to release or let go

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The mother hugged her child tightly (搂住孩子).
  • He gathered up the scattered papers (搂起纸张).
  • The couple cuddled on the sofa (在沙发上搂抱).

Collocations

  • Hug tightly(搂住)
  • Cuddle and hug(搂抱)
  • Gather up(搂起)
  • Hold in one's arms(搂在怀里)
  • Put arm around shoulder(搂着肩膀)

Idioms

  • To gather illicit wealth(搂钱)
  • To hug and carry(搂搂抱抱)
  • To rake in profits(搂耙子)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • The character 搂 combines the hand radical (扌) with the phonetic component 娄, suggesting an action performed with the hands.
  • In Chinese culture, public displays of affection like hugging were traditionally less common but are becoming more accepted in modern contexts.
  • The character can carry informal or slightly colloquial connotations when referring to physical affection.

FAQ