Is 黧 a good character for a name?

Generally, no. It carries strong connotations of a dark, sallow complexion associated with hardship and poverty, making it an unfavorable choice for most names.

What is the main meaning of 黧?

Its primary meaning is a dark, blackish, often sallow or yellowish-black color, typically used to describe the skin.

Where is 黧 commonly encountered?

It is primarily found in classical Chinese literature and formal writings describing physical appearance, especially to signify someone who has endured labor or suffering.

黧Tone 2

lí ｜ 20 strokes ｜ radical:

Prev俊梁Next

黧 · lí

Dark black;

blackish;

dark-colored, especially describing a dark, sallow complexion.

Dark blackblackishdark-colored, especially describing a dark, sallow complexion.

Usage highlights

Dark and sallow faceDark complexionDark and gauntBlackish yellowDark and withered

Synonyms

黑— black (general term)
黝— swarthy; dark

Antonyms

白— white; fair-skinned
皙— fair; white (of skin)

Usage & contexts

Examples

Her face was dark and sallow (面目黧黑).
The old farmer's skin was weathered and dark (面色黧黑).
He had a dark, gaunt face (形容黧黑).

Collocations

Dark and sallow face(面目黧黑)
Dark complexion(面色黧黑)
Dark and gaunt(形容黧黑)
Blackish yellow(黧黑)
Dark and withered(黧老)

Idioms

Face dark and sallow(面目黧黑)
Complexion dark and yellow(形容黧黑)

Cultural background

FAQ

Traditionally used in classical Chinese to describe the weathered, dark complexion of laborers or those who have endured hardship.
Often carries a connotation of poverty, toil, or suffering due to exposure to the elements.
Less common in modern vernacular, primarily encountered in classical literature or formal descriptions.

黧 (lí) - Dark black & blackish