猊 (ní) - Lion — specifically refers to a lion, often & also appears in the term for lion statue

猊Tone 2

ní ｜ 11 strokes ｜ radical:

楠念

猊 · ní

Lion — specifically refers to a lion, often used in classical Chinese and Buddhist texts;

also appears in the term for lion statue (狻猊).

Lion — specifically refers to a lion, oftenalso appears in the term for lion statue

Usage highlights

Suanni mythical beastLion throneStone lionLion's roarGolden lionLion statue

Synonyms

  • 狮— lion (more common modern term)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The stone lion statue stood guard (石猊 statue).
  • Ancient texts mention the mythical beast Suanni (狻猊).
  • Buddhist temples often feature lion carvings (猊座 lion throne).

Collocations

  • Suanni mythical beast(狻猊)
  • Lion throne(猊座)
  • Stone lion(石猊)
  • Lion's roar(猊吼)
  • Golden lion(金猊)
  • Lion statue(猊像)

Idioms

  • The Suanni lion(狻猊)
  • Lion throne of Buddha(猊座)
  • Golden lion incense burner(金猊香炉)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Appears in classical Chinese mythology as part of the composite beast 'Suanni' (狻猊), one of the nine sons of the dragon.
  • Used in Buddhist context to refer to lion thrones or seats, symbolizing power and protection.
  • Often depicted in traditional Chinese architecture as guardian lion statues.

FAQ