Learn a Chinese Character - 萌

1. Character Basics

Radical: 艹 (cǎo) - Grass radical

Stroke Count: 11 strokes

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: méng (Second tone)

3. Meaning

Sprout; bud; germinate; cute; adorable; endearing; innocent

4. Common Words

• 萌芽 (méngyá) - Sprout; germ; bud
• 萌生 (méngshēng) - To emerge; to come into being
• 萌动 (méngdòng) - To stir; to sprout; to stir feelings
• 萌发 (méngfā) - To germinate; to sprout; to develop
• 萌萌哒 (méngméngdā) - Adorable; cute (colloquial)
• 萌宠 (méngchǒng) - Cute pet
• 萌娃 (méngwá) - Cute baby/kid
• 萌系 (méngxì) - Cute style; moe style

5. Grammar & Usage

The character "萌" has both traditional and modern usages. Traditionally, it is used as a verb meaning "to sprout" or "to germinate." In modern usage, especially in internet culture and among younger generations, it is commonly used as an adjective to describe something or someone cute, adorable, or endearing. It can be used alone or in compound words like "萌宠" (méngchǒng, cute pet).

6. Cultural Background

The original meaning of "萌" relates to plant growth, reflecting the agricultural roots of Chinese culture and the importance of nature. In recent years, the character has evolved in popular culture, particularly through Japanese influence, to mean "cute" or "adorable." This modern usage has become widespread in Chinese internet culture, anime/manga fandoms, and youth slang, demonstrating how language evolves with cultural trends.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character "萌" consists of the grass radical "艹" on top and "明" (míng, bright) below. You can remember it as "brightness under grass," which relates to the idea of new growth sprouting in the light. The modern meaning of "cute" can be associated with the freshness and innocence of new growth.