Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
笮zé(ze2)
The character 笮 (zé) refers to boards or planks that are used to support roof tiles in traditional Chinese architecture. This term is often encountered in discussions about building materials and construction methods, particularly in the context of historical buildings where tile roofs are prevalent.
Strokes11Radical⺮Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, the architecture of buildings often reflects harmony with nature, and the use of tiles and their supporting boards is fundamental in maintaining the longevity and aesthetic of these structures.
Memory Tip
Imagine a narrow board supporting a roof, with the shape of 笮 resembling a roof with tiles on top. The 'Z' sound in 'zé' can be remembered as the 'Z' in 'zigzag' to symbolize how these boards lay beneath the tiles, forming a supportive structure.
Meanings of 笮
zé(ze2)
1boards that support roof tiles
2board under tiles on roof
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 笮
笮Simplified
11Strokes
⺮Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 笮
Podcast: 笮
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 笮
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a narrow board supporting a roof, with the shape of 笮 resembling a roof with tiles on top. The 'Z' sound in 'zé' can be remembered as the 'Z' in 'zigzag' to symbolize how these boards lay beneath the tiles, forming a supportive structure.
Usage Notes
This character is rarely used in everyday conversation, making it more relevant in formal or technical contexts related to architecture. Be careful not to confuse it with similar characters that also refer to structures or materials; context is key.
HSK Study Tips
Although 笮 is not included in the HSK levels, it can be connected to other vocabulary related to construction and architecture. Focus on understanding its usage in specific contexts rather than trying to use it in casual conversation.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, the architecture of buildings often reflects harmony with nature, and the use of tiles and their supporting boards is fundamental in maintaining the longevity and aesthetic of these structures.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mispronounce 笮 due to unfamiliarity with its tone; ensure you emphasize the rising tone. Additionally, some may confuse it with similar-sounding words like 材 (cái), which means material, leading to incorrect usage.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 笮
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 笮 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 笮 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 笮
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese culture, the architecture of buildings often reflects harmony with nature, and the use of tiles and their supporting boards is fundamental in maintaining the longevity and aesthetic of these structures.
Word Family of 笮
Words Containing This Character1
笮zénarrow
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 笮 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 笮
It is pronounced as 'zé' with a rising tone.
No, it is primarily used in specific technical contexts related to architecture.
An example sentence could be: '这座古老的建筑使用了很多笮来支撑屋顶的瓦片。'
