狮 (shī) - Lion — a large carnivorous feline mammal, often

狮Tone 1

shī ｜ 9 strokes ｜ radical:

上姝

狮 · shī

Lion — a large carnivorous feline mammal, often used symbolically to represent courage, majesty, and power in Chinese culture.

Lion — a large carnivorous feline mammal, often

Usage highlights

LionLion danceStone lionLion's roarSea lionLion tamer

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • 兔— rabbit (symbolizing meekness vs lion's power)
  • 鼠— rat (symbolizing timidity vs lion's courage)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The lion is the king of beasts (狮子是百兽之王).
  • We saw lions at the zoo (我们在动物园看到了狮子).
  • Lion dance is a traditional performance (舞狮是一种传统表演).
  • The stone lion guards the entrance (石狮子守卫着入口).

Collocations

  • Lion(狮子)
  • Lion dance(舞狮)
  • Stone lion(石狮)
  • Lion's roar(狮吼)
  • Sea lion(海狮)
  • Lion tamer(驯狮员)

Idioms

  • Lion's roar and tiger's might(狮吼虎啸)
  • Like a lion fighting a rabbit(狮搏兔)
  • Lion's heart and bear's courage(狮心熊胆)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Lions are not native to China but were introduced via cultural exchange along the Silk Road.
  • The lion symbolizes power, dignity, and protection in Chinese culture, often depicted as guardian figures.
  • Lion dance is an important tradition during Chinese New Year and other celebrations to ward off evil spirits.

FAQ