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March 24, 2026
鸨(鴇)bǎo(bao3)
The character 鸨 (bǎo) refers to a type of large, ground-dwelling bird known as a bustard, which is often found in open grasslands and is notable for its size and unique mating displays. In some contexts, it can also refer to a procuress, which is a woman who facilitates or manages brothels. The term is not commonly used in everyday conversation, making it more relevant in literary or specific zoological contexts.
Strokes9Radical鸟Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, certain birds like the bustard are associated with auspiciousness and are sometimes featured in art and poetry. The concept of a procuress also ties into historical views on relationships and social structures in ancient Chinese society, reflecting complex societal norms.
Memory Tip
Imagine a large bird, the bustard, strutting around in a field, proudly displaying its feathers. The character 鸨 resembles a bird with a big beak, which helps you remember its meaning. The 'b' sound in 'bustard' can connect to the 'bǎo' pronunciation, like a big bird making a bold statement.
Meanings of 鸨
bǎo(bao3)
1bustard; procuress; Otis species (various)
2Chinese bustard
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About 鸨
鸨Simplified
鴇Traditional
9Strokes
鸟Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 鸨
Podcast: 鸨
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AI Study Notes for 鸨
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a large bird, the bustard, strutting around in a field, proudly displaying its feathers. The character 鸨 resembles a bird with a big beak, which helps you remember its meaning. The 'b' sound in 'bustard' can connect to the 'bǎo' pronunciation, like a big bird making a bold statement.
Usage Notes
This term is quite specialized and may not be familiar to many Mandarin speakers; thus, it's often found in academic texts or discussions about wildlife. Be cautious about using it in casual conversation, as it may come off as overly formal or niche. Remember that 'bǎo' can also have other meanings in different contexts, so it's essential to understand the surrounding text.
HSK Study Tips
As this character is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, learners at lower levels may not encounter it frequently. However, advanced students should focus on its usage in specific contexts, especially in literature or zoology. Connecting it to related animal vocabulary can also enhance retention.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, certain birds like the bustard are associated with auspiciousness and are sometimes featured in art and poetry. The concept of a procuress also ties into historical views on relationships and social structures in ancient Chinese society, reflecting complex societal norms.
Common Mistakes
Learners might confuse 鸨 with similar-sounding words or use it incorrectly in casual settings. For example, saying '我今天看到一个 鸨' (I saw a 鸨 today) might be misleading without context, as it is not a common sight and could confuse listeners.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 鸨
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Cultural Notes for 鸨
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese culture, certain birds like the bustard are associated with auspiciousness and are sometimes featured in art and poetry. The concept of a procuress also ties into historical views on relationships and social structures in ancient Chinese society, reflecting complex societal norms.
Word Family of 鸨
Words Containing This Character4
老鸨female brothel keeper老鴇
鸨bǎoprocuress鴇
鸨母a bawd鴇母
大鸨(bird species of China) great bustard (Otis tarda)大鴇
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 老鸨 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 鸨
A 鸨 refers to a bustard, which is a large, ground-dwelling bird found in grasslands.
No, 鸨 is a specialized term mostly found in academic or literary contexts.
In some contexts, 鸨 can refer to a procuress, which is a woman who manages brothels.