[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Natural-World \ #Celestial-Phenomena # 星 xīng star ## Components [[日 (rì)]] [[日 rì]] [[生 (shēng)]] [[生 shēng]] ## Meaning Today, the character "星" (xīng) primarily signifies "star" in modern Chinese. It refers to celestial bodies that emit light and are visible in the night sky. Additionally, metaphorically, it can refer to outstanding individuals, such as celebrities or prominent figures, who shine brightly in their respective fields. ## History The character "星" (xīng) originally depicted the sparkling appearance of stars in the sky. Ancient observers associated stars with celestial beings and used them for divination. Legends like the "Cowherd and the Weaver Girl" reflect the cultural significance of stars in Chinese mythology. In modern usage, "星" metaphorically refers to outstanding individuals, like movie stars, due to their radiant presence. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[星 ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[星 bron.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[星 sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[星 cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[星 xīng - reg.svg]]