柂 (yí) - rudder & helm

柂Tone 2

yí ｜ 9 strokes ｜ radical:

一懿

柂 · yí

rudder;

helm;

to steer;

to guide;

also refers to a type of tree (cedrela sinensis).

rudderhelmto steer

Usage highlights

ship's rudderturn the rudderhold the helmcedar woodrudder handlesteering

Synonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The captain turned the rudder (转柂).
  • This ancient tree is a Chinese cedar (柂树).
  • He grasped the helm firmly (握紧柂).
  • The ship changed direction with the rudder (柂转向).

Collocations

  • ship's rudder(船柂)
  • turn the rudder(转柂)
  • hold the helm(执柂)
  • cedar wood(柂木)
  • rudder handle(柂柄)
  • steering(操柂)

Idioms

  • Hold the helm and steer the course(执柂导航)
  • As firm as a cedar(坚如柂木)
  • Turn the rudder to change direction(转柂易向)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In ancient Chinese navigation, the rudder was crucial for maritime exploration and trade.
  • The character appears in classical texts describing shipbuilding and navigation techniques.
  • The cedar tree (柂) was valued in traditional Chinese architecture and furniture making for its durability.

FAQ