Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
缲(繰)qiāo(qiao1)
The character 缲 (qiāo) refers to the action of spooling or reeling, particularly in the context of thread or silk. It is commonly used in textile production, where raw materials like silk are processed into usable threads, and can also imply a meticulous, careful approach to handling delicate materials.
Strokes16Radical纟Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The practice of reeling silk is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, especially in regions like Suzhou, which is famous for its silk production. The ability to spool silk is often associated with traditional craftsmanship and artistry.
Memory Tip
Imagine a spinning wheel where silk threads are being carefully reined in. The character 缲 looks like two threads ('丝', silk) being pulled together in a tight circle, representing the action of reeling. Remember 'qiāo' by visualizing a quiet, serene scene of a skilled artisan working with silk threads.
Meanings of 缲
qiāo(qiao1)
primary
1to spool, to reel
2to reel silk from cocoons
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 缲
缲Simplified
繰Traditional
16Strokes
纟Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 缲
Podcast: 缲
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 缲
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a spinning wheel where silk threads are being carefully reined in. The character 缲 looks like two threads ('丝', silk) being pulled together in a tight circle, representing the action of reeling. Remember 'qiāo' by visualizing a quiet, serene scene of a skilled artisan working with silk threads.
Usage Notes
This verb is relatively formal and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation. It's often found in contexts related to textile production or craftsmanship. A common mistake is to confuse it with similar-sounding words; pay attention to the tones and context when using it.
HSK Study Tips
Though 缲 is not in the HSK levels, it connects to HSK vocabulary related to textiles and craftsmanship, such as 丝 (sī, silk) and 线 (xiàn, thread). Students should focus on recognizing characters related to production and handling of materials in this domain.
Cultural Note
The practice of reeling silk is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, especially in regions like Suzhou, which is famous for its silk production. The ability to spool silk is often associated with traditional craftsmanship and artistry.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 缲 (qiāo) with similar-sounding words like 交 (jiāo, to hand over) or 叫 (jiào, to call). Ensure to use the correct context when referring to textile actions to avoid confusion.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 缲
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 缲 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 缲 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 缲
🏮Cultural insight
The practice of reeling silk is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, especially in regions like Suzhou, which is famous for its silk production. The ability to spool silk is often associated with traditional craftsmanship and artistry.
Word Family of 缲
Words Containing This Character1
缲qiāoto reel silk from cocoons繰
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 缲 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 缲
No, 缲 is more specialized and is primarily used in contexts related to textiles and craftsmanship.
Yes, characters like 纺 (fǎng, to spin) and 紡 (fǎng, to weave) are related and often used in the same context.
Remember that 缲 is pronounced 'qiāo' with a high-level tone; practicing with words related to textiles can help reinforce this.
