蠶 (cán) - Silkworm — the larva of the silkmoth (Bombyx & a key insect in sericulture.

蠶Tone 2

cán ｜ 24 strokes ｜ radical:

偲嫦

蠶 · cán

Silkworm — the larva of the silkmoth (Bombyx mori), which produces silk;

a key insect in sericulture.

Silkworm — the larva of the silkmoth (Bombyxa key insect in sericulture.

Usage highlights

Silkworm rearingSilkworm chrysalisSilkworm eggSilkworm mothSilk cocoonMulberry silkworm

Synonyms

  • 桑蠶— Mulberry silkworm (most common type)
  • 家蠶— Domestic silkworm
  • 蠶寶寶— Baby silkworm (affectionate term)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The silkworm (蠶) spins a cocoon.
  • Sericulture is the cultivation of silkworms (養蠶).
  • Silkworm chrysalis is a food source (蠶蛹).
  • Mulberry leaves are the primary food for silkworms (桑蠶).

Collocations

  • Silkworm rearing(養蠶)
  • Silkworm chrysalis(蠶蛹)
  • Silkworm egg(蠶卵)
  • Silkworm moth(蠶蛾)
  • Silk cocoon(蠶繭)
  • Mulberry silkworm(桑蠶)

Idioms

  • Spring silkworms spin silk until death(春蠶到死絲方盡)
  • Silkworm's chamber(蠶室)
  • Silkworm's head and butterfly's eyebrows(蠶頭蝶眉)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Silkworm cultivation (sericulture) is an ancient Chinese invention dating back to the Neolithic period.
  • Silk production was a closely guarded state secret and a major commodity on the Silk Road.
  • The silkworm is a symbol of diligence and selfless dedication in Chinese culture.

FAQ