鸽 (gē) - Pigeon & dove

鸽Tone 1

gē ｜ 11 strokes ｜ radical:

枫惠

鸽 · gē

Pigeon;

dove;

a bird of the family Columbidae, often symbolizing peace or used as a messenger.

Pigeondovea bird of the family Columbidae, often symbolizing

Usage highlights

PigeonCarrier pigeonPeace doveWild pigeonPigeon cagePigeon race

Synonyms

  • 鸠— Turtledove; a similar bird

Antonyms

  • 鹰— Eagle; a bird of prey, symbolizing power and aggression

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The pigeon (鸽子) cooed on the windowsill.
  • He sent a carrier pigeon (信鸽) with the message.
  • The dove (和平鸽) is a symbol of peace.
  • We saw a flock of wild pigeons (野鸽) in the square.

Collocations

  • Pigeon(鸽子)
  • Carrier pigeon(信鸽)
  • Peace dove(和平鸽)
  • Wild pigeon(野鸽)
  • Pigeon cage(鸽笼)
  • Pigeon race(赛鸽)

Idioms

  • To release the dove for peace(放和平鸽)
  • Pigeon's eye view (a limited perspective)(鸽眼视角)
  • As timid as a pigeon(胆小如鸽)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese culture, doves/pigeons are symbols of peace, harmony, and fidelity.
  • Historically used as messenger birds (carrier pigeons) due to their homing instinct.
  • Appears in art and literature representing gentleness and sometimes naivety.

FAQ