Learn a Chinese Character - 缎

1. Character Basics

Radical: 纟 (Silk radical)

Stroke Count: 12 (Number of strokes: 12)

Structure Analysis: 形声字，从纟（丝绸），段声（duàn，表音）。本义指光滑的丝织品（如"绸缎"），现指高级织物（如"锦缎"）(Phonetic-semantic character: "纟" (silk) + "段" (phonetic). Originally meant "smooth silk fabric", now means "luxury textile".)

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: Duàn (Fourth tone)

3. Meaning

Satin; damask; smooth silk fabric; luxury textile with a glossy surface; a type of fine woven fabric.

4. Common Words

• 绸缎 (chóu duàn) Silk satin
• 缎带 (duàn dài) Satin ribbon
• 锦缎 (jǐn duàn) Brocade
• 缎纹 (duàn wén) Satin weave

5. Grammar & Usage

The character 缎 (duàn) is primarily used as a noun, referring to types of fabrics:

• As a noun: Refers to satin or similar luxurious fabrics. Example: 缎子 (duàn zi) - satin
• In compound words: Often combined with other characters to specify types of satin or related items. Example: 绸缎 (chóu duàn) - silk satin
• In descriptions: Used to describe the quality or material of clothing or items. Example: 缎面 (duàn miàn) - satin surface
• Measure word usage: Typically used with 块 (kuài) or 匹 (pǐ). Example: 一块绸缎 (yī kuài chóu duàn) - a piece of silk satin

6. Cultural Background

The character 缎 (duàn) has significant cultural importance in China:

• China has a long history of silk production, with satin (缎) being one of the most prized silk fabrics, dating back over 2,000 years.
• Silk satin was historically reserved for the imperial family and nobility, symbolizing wealth and status.
• Traditional Chinese wedding dresses are often made of red satin (红缎), which symbolizes joy and good fortune.
• Hangzhou and Suzhou are famous for producing high-quality satin, with techniques passed down through generations.
• In Chinese art, satin fabrics are often depicted in paintings and embroidery, showcasing their luxurious texture and sheen.
• Today, Chinese satin continues to be valued worldwide for its quality and is used in high-end fashion and traditional clothing.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

Combine "纟" (silk) + "段" (segment) → Segmented silk production. 组合“纟”+“段”→ 分段生产的丝绸。