莼 (chún) - water shield — an aquatic plant (Brasenia schreberi)

莼Tone 2

chún ｜ 10 strokes ｜ radical:

橙丁

莼 · chún

water shield — an aquatic plant (Brasenia schreberi) with edible leaves used in Chinese cuisine, particularly in soups.

water shield — an aquatic plant (Brasenia schreberi)

Usage highlights

water shieldwater shield soupLake Tai water shieldfresh water shieldwater shield stemsgelatinous water shield

Synonyms

  • 莼菜— water shield (the edible plant)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • Water shield soup is a delicacy (莼菜汤).
  • The leaves have a gelatinous coating (莼菜的黏液).
  • This dish features water shield (这道菜里有莼菜).
  • Lake Tai is known for water shield (太湖莼菜).

Collocations

  • water shield(莼菜)
  • water shield soup(莼菜汤)
  • Lake Tai water shield(太湖莼菜)
  • fresh water shield(鲜莼菜)
  • water shield stems(莼菜茎)
  • gelatinous water shield(滑腻的莼菜)

Idioms

  • Thinking of water shield soup makes one think of home(莼羹鲈脍)
  • Pure heart like water shield(纯心如莼)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Water shield has been used in Chinese cuisine for over 1600 years, mentioned in ancient texts.
  • It is particularly associated with Hangzhou and Lake Tai regions.
  • The plant symbolizes purity and nostalgia in Chinese culture due to its clear water habitat.

FAQ