unknown, 9 strokes, radical ⺼, rank #61263, Very Hard
zhòu(zhou4) T4
1helmet; descendant
2descendants
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
胄zhòu(zhou4)
The character 胄 (zhòu) primarily means 'helmet' and can also refer to 'descendants' or 'offspring' in a broader context. It is often used in literary or historical texts, particularly when discussing lineage or heritage. In modern usage, it is less common and may appear in specific contexts related to historical or cultural discussions.
Strokes9Radical⺼Frequency#61263DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, lineage is highly valued, and the term 胄 reflects the importance of knowing one's ancestors and descendants, particularly in Confucian teachings on filial piety.
Memory Tip
Visualize a knight wearing a helmet (the top part resembling the character 胄) while standing proudly, symbolizing both protection and lineage. The 'helmet' acts as a protective cover for the head, just as 'descendants' are the next generation that carries on the family name.
Meanings of 胄
zhòu(zhou4)
1helmet; descendant
2descendants
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 胄
胄Simplified
9Strokes
⺼Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 胄
Podcast: 胄
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 胄
Memory Mnemonic
Visualize a knight wearing a helmet (the top part resembling the character 胄) while standing proudly, symbolizing both protection and lineage. The 'helmet' acts as a protective cover for the head, just as 'descendants' are the next generation that carries on the family name.
Usage Notes
When using 胄, be cautious of its formal tone, which is more suited for written texts or historical discussions rather than casual conversation. A common mistake is confusing it with similar-sounding words; ensure you use it in the correct context related to protection or genealogy.
HSK Study Tips
Although 胄 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it connects to HSK Level 5 words related to family and heritage. Students should focus on understanding its dual meanings and practice using it in sentences about family history.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, lineage is highly valued, and the term 胄 reflects the importance of knowing one's ancestors and descendants, particularly in Confucian teachings on filial piety.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 胄 with the character 走 (zǒu), which means 'to walk' due to the similar pronunciation. Ensure you focus on the context to avoid confusion, as 胄 relates to heritage and protection rather than movement.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 胄
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 胄 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 胄 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 胄
胄 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 5
Complete the Sentence
手执利剑的人已经推翻了王室贵____.
Men of the sword had overthrown nobles and kings.
Example Sentences for 胄 (3)
Listen to all sentences once to receive XP
1
手执利剑的人已经推翻了王室贵胄.
shǒu zhí lì jiàn de rén yǐ jīng tuī fān le wáng shì guì zhòu.
Men of the sword had overthrown nobles and kings.
2
他试图穿上他的甲胄.
tā shì tú chuān shàng tā de jiǎ zhòu.
He tried to buckle his armours on.
3
它既是甲胄又是武器.
tā jì shì jiǎ zhòu yòu shì wǔ qì.
It is an armour and a weapon.
Cultural Notes for 胄
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese culture, lineage is highly valued, and the term 胄 reflects the importance of knowing one's ancestors and descendants, particularly in Confucian teachings on filial piety.
Word Family of 胄
Words Containing This Character4
胄zhòuhelmet
甲胄armor
贵胄descendants of feudal aristocrats貴胄
华胄(literary) Han people華胄
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 胄 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 胄
While 胄 can mean descendants, it is more formal and often used in literary contexts. Other terms like 孙子 (sūnzi) for 'grandson' are more commonly used in daily conversation.
No, 胄 is relatively rare in modern usage and is mostly found in historical or literary contexts.
Yes, it primarily means 'helmet' but can also refer to descendants in specific contexts.
