蝥 (máo) - A type of poisonous insect & specifically refers to the Chinese blister beetle (Mylabris)

蝥Tone 2

máo ｜ 15 strokes ｜ radical:

伦妙

蝥 · máo

A type of poisonous insect;

specifically refers to the Chinese blister beetle (Mylabris) used in traditional Chinese medicine.

A type of poisonous insectspecifically refers to the Chinese blister beetle (Mylabris)

Usage highlights

Blister beetleCantharidesInsect venomChinese blister beetlePoisonous insectMylabris beetle

Synonyms

  • 斑蝥— Chinese blister beetle (specific species)
  • 芫青— Mylabris (alternative name for blister beetle)

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The blister beetle (斑蝥) is used in traditional medicine.
  • Some insects have venom (虫蝥之毒).
  • Ancient texts mention the use of cantharides (蝥虫) for medicinal purposes.
  • The Chinese blister beetle (斑蝥) produces cantharidin, a toxic compound.

Collocations

  • Blister beetle(斑蝥)
  • Cantharides(蝥虫)
  • Insect venom(蝥毒)
  • Chinese blister beetle(中华蝥)
  • Poisonous insect(毒蝥)
  • Mylabris beetle(芫青蝥)

Idioms

  • Like a mantis stinging with its tail(蝥弧之刺)
  • The poison of insects and scorpions(虫蝥之毒)
  • To catch cantharides(捕蝥取毒)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Historically used in traditional Chinese medicine for its vesicant properties.
  • Mentioned in ancient Chinese medical texts like Shennong Bencao Jing.
  • The character appears in classical Chinese literature referring to venomous insects.
  • Associated with both medicinal benefits and toxic dangers in Chinese culture.

FAQ