a drum-shaped rattle (used by peddlers or as a toy)
unknown, 19 strokes, radical 鼓, Very Hard
鼗
táo
rattle-drum
unknown, 19 strokes, radical 鼓, Very Hard
táo(tao2) T2
1small revolving drum with knobs
2a drum-shaped rattle (used by peddlers or as a toy)
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March 24, 2026
鼗táo(tao2)
The character 鼗 (táo) refers to a type of small drum, specifically a revolving drum with knobs or a rattle-drum often used by peddlers or as a toy. It is commonly associated with traditional Chinese music and play, highlighting a playful aspect of culture and entertainment.
Strokes19Radical鼓Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, instruments like the 鼗 are often used in folk performances, especially during festivals or celebrations, symbolizing joy and community spirit. It connects to children's play and the vibrant atmosphere of street performances.
Memory Tip
Imagine a small, colorful drum that spins around and makes noise when you turn it. The character 鼗 has the radical '鼓' which relates to drums, and the sound 'táo' can remind you of a child shouting 'ta-da!' when they spin the drum, making it a fun, celebratory sound.
Meanings of 鼗
táo(tao2)
1small revolving drum with knobs
2a drum-shaped rattle (used by peddlers or as a toy)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 鼗
鼗Simplified
19Strokes
鼓Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 鼗
Podcast: 鼗
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AI Study Notes for 鼗
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a small, colorful drum that spins around and makes noise when you turn it. The character 鼗 has the radical '鼓' which relates to drums, and the sound 'táo' can remind you of a child shouting 'ta-da!' when they spin the drum, making it a fun, celebratory sound.
Usage Notes
This character is relatively uncommon in everyday conversation, primarily used in specific contexts related to music or toys. Be cautious not to confuse it with similar-sounding words, and note that it is more likely to appear in literary or historical texts rather than in modern spoken language.
HSK Study Tips
Although 鼗 is not part of the HSK vocabulary list, it can be connected to other HSK words related to music or instruments. Students at this level should focus on recognizing the radicals and components of characters to enhance their understanding of related vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, instruments like the 鼗 are often used in folk performances, especially during festivals or celebrations, symbolizing joy and community spirit. It connects to children's play and the vibrant atmosphere of street performances.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 鼗 with other characters related to drums, such as 鼓 (gǔ), which means 'drum' in a more general sense. A common mistake is saying '鼓' when referring to a rattle-drum; instead, use '鼗' for that specific instrument.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 鼗
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Cultural Notes for 鼗
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese culture, instruments like the 鼗 are often used in folk performances, especially during festivals or celebrations, symbolizing joy and community spirit. It connects to children's play and the vibrant atmosphere of street performances.
Word Family of 鼗
Words Containing This Character1
鼗táorattle-drum
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 鼗 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 鼗
The 鼗 is primarily used as a toy or in traditional music, often associated with children's entertainment.
No, 鼗 is not commonly used in everyday conversation and is more often found in historical or literary contexts.
You can remember the pronunciation 'táo' by associating it with the sound of a child joyfully playing with a drum.