檐 (yán) - Eaves — the projecting overhang at the lower & also refers to the brim of a hat

檐Tone 2

yán ｜ 17 strokes ｜ radical:

妍嬿

檐 · yán

Eaves — the projecting overhang at the lower edge of a roof;

also refers to the brim of a hat or any similar protruding edge.

Eaves — the projecting overhang at the loweralso refers to the brim of a hat

Usage highlights

EavesBrim of a hatEaves tileEaves gutterFlying eavesUnder the eaves

Synonyms

  • 椽— rafter (structural element supporting the roof)
  • 脊— ridge (top of the roof)

Antonyms

  • 基— foundation (bottom support vs. top overhang)
  • 础— plinth (base stone vs. roof edge)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The swallow nests under the eaves (屋檐).
  • Rain dripped from the eaves (檐口).
  • He wore a hat with a wide brim (帽檐).
  • The temple has upturned eaves (飞檐).

Collocations

  • Eaves(屋檐)
  • Brim of a hat(帽檐)
  • Eaves tile(檐瓦)
  • Eaves gutter(檐沟)
  • Flying eaves(飞檐)
  • Under the eaves(檐下)

Idioms

  • No place to hang one's head(无檐难挂帽)
  • Under the same eaves(同在一个屋檐下)
  • Flying eaves and arched corners(飞檐斗拱)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In traditional Chinese architecture, the upturned eaves (飞檐) are a distinctive feature, symbolizing grandeur and spiritual ascent.
  • The eaves were designed not only for drainage but also for protection, believed to ward off evil spirits.
  • The space under the eaves (檐下) often held social significance, being a semi-public area for daily activities.

FAQ