钺 (yuè) - A battle-axe used in ancient China, especially as & also used in names.

钺Tone 4

yuè ｜ 10 strokes ｜ radical:

悦丈

钺 · yuè

A battle-axe used in ancient China, especially as a ceremonial weapon symbolizing military authority;

also used in names.

A battle-axe used in ancient China, especially asalso used in names.

Usage highlights

BattleBronze battleJade battleCeremonial battleGolden battleAxe and shield

Synonyms

  • 斧— axe (general term)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The general wielded a ceremonial battle-axe (钺).
  • This bronze battle-axe (青铜钺) dates from the Shang dynasty.
  • The character for battle-axe (钺) appears in some classical texts.
  • He has the character for battle-axe (钺) in his name.

Collocations

  • Battle-axe(钺)
  • Bronze battle-axe(青铜钺)
  • Jade battle-axe(玉钺)
  • Ceremonial battle-axe(礼钺)
  • Golden battle-axe(金钺)
  • Axe and shield(斧钺)

Idioms

  • To wield the battle-axe of punishment(秉钺)
  • The authority to execute(斧钺之诛)
  • To hold the battle-axe as commander(持钺)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • The battle-axe was a symbol of military command and royal authority in ancient China, particularly during the Shang and Zhou dynasties.
  • Jade battle-axes were used in ceremonial contexts, while bronze ones were functional weapons.
  • The character appears in historical texts describing military campaigns and authority.

FAQ