unknown, 13 strokes, radical 木, rank #29385, Very Hard
méi(mei2) T2
1crossbar; lintel
2crossbeam
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March 24, 2026
楣méi(mei2)
The character 楣 (méi) refers to a structural element in architecture, specifically a crossbar or lintel that supports a door or window. It is commonly used in contexts related to construction and traditional Chinese architecture, where such elements are vital for stability and design aesthetics.
Strokes13Radical木Frequency#29385DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese architecture, the lintel (楣) is not just a functional element but also often intricately carved, reflecting the artistry and cultural values of the period. It symbolizes the entryway to a home, embodying both protection and beauty.
Memory Tip
Imagine a strong wooden crossbeam (the 楣) holding up a beautiful ancient door. The character itself has a tree radical (木) on the left, suggesting strength and support from nature, while the right side hints at a building structure. Picture this beam as essential for a grand entrance, making it memorable.
Meanings of 楣
méi(mei2)
1crossbar; lintel
2crossbeam
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 楣
楣Simplified
13Strokes
木Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 楣
Podcast: 楣
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AI Study Notes for 楣
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a strong wooden crossbeam (the 楣) holding up a beautiful ancient door. The character itself has a tree radical (木) on the left, suggesting strength and support from nature, while the right side hints at a building structure. Picture this beam as essential for a grand entrance, making it memorable.
Usage Notes
This word is often used in formal contexts, particularly in architectural discussions. A common mistake is to confuse it with similar characters; ensure you focus on the context of structural support. Collocations include phrases like '门楣' (ménméi) meaning 'door lintel.'
HSK Study Tips
Although 楣 is not listed in the HSK vocabulary, it can be beneficial to connect it with other architectural terms you may learn at this level, such as '建筑' (jiànzhù - architecture) and '结构' (jiégòu - structure). Focus on understanding the context in which such structural terms are used.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese architecture, the lintel (楣) is not just a functional element but also often intricately carved, reflecting the artistry and cultural values of the period. It symbolizes the entryway to a home, embodying both protection and beauty.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly pronounce 楣 as 'nèi' instead of 'méi.' Additionally, mixing up 楣 with similar-sounding words can lead to confusion; ensure you associate it specifically with structural support.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 楣
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Grammar Patterns of 楣
楣 carries 2 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
如果我不戴面纱就会有辱门____。
It would dishonour my family if I didn't wear the veil.
Example Sentences for 楣 (9)
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1
如果我不戴面纱就会有辱门楣。
rú guǒ wǒ bù dài miàn shā jiù huì yǒu rǔ mén méi。
It would dishonour my family if I didn't wear the veil.
Its lintels, brackets and roofs all have artistic engravings on them.
Cultural Notes for 楣
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese architecture, the lintel (楣) is not just a functional element but also often intricately carved, reflecting the artistry and cultural values of the period. It symbolizes the entryway to a home, embodying both protection and beauty.
Word Family of 楣
Words Containing This Character5
楣méilintel
门楣lintel (of a door)門楣
倒楣to have bad luck
光耀门楣fig. to bring honor to one's family光耀門楣
横楣lintel橫楣
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 楣 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 楣
It refers to a lintel or crossbeam that supports structures like doors and windows.
No, it is more commonly used in formal contexts related to architecture.
Link it to the image of a strong beam, and remember it sounds like 'may'.
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