Word Explanation
A yǔshàn (feather fan) is a traditional Chinese hand fan made from bird feathers—most commonly from pheasants, peacocks, or cranes—mounted on a slender handle. The character yǔ means 'feather' and refers to the plumage of birds, while shàn means 'fan', indicating its function as a cooling or ceremonial object. Together, they form a compound noun specifying the material and purpose.
Historically, the feather fan symbolized elegance, scholarly refinement, and military strategy—famous figures like Zhuge Liang were often depicted holding one. Today, it appears in classical dance, opera costumes, and cultural performances, and is occasionally used decoratively or in martial arts demonstrations. Though no longer common for daily cooling, it remains a potent visual motif representing grace, wisdom, and traditional aesthetics.
Example Sentences
Related Words
国语
‘Guó yǔ’ literally means 'national language'—
面条
‘面条’ (miàn tiáo) literally means ‘flour str
无论谁
‘无论谁’ (wú lùn shéi) is a pronoun meaning
背后
背后 literally means 'back + behind' and functions
外语
‘外语’ literally means ‘outside language’ —
认同
‘认同’ (tóng rèn) is a verb meaning ‘to ident
中学
'Zhōngxué' literally combines 'zhōng' (middle)
认为
‘认为’ (rèn wéi) is a transitive verb meaning