[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Natural-World \ #Animals # 龙 lóng dragon ## Componentes [[尢 (wāng)]] [[丿 (piě)]] [[丶 (zhǔ)]] ## Meaning The character 龙 (lóng) means "dragon." Dragons are legendary creatures in Chinese mythology and folklore, often depicted as large, serpentine creatures with scaled bodies, four legs, and a long, snakelike tail. They are powerful symbols of strength, prosperity, and good fortune in Chinese culture, and they have been revered and worshiped for thousands of years. In Chinese culture, dragons are associated with various attributes and qualities, including wisdom, longevity, and the ability to control the weather. They are also closely linked to the emperor and imperial power, symbolizing the authority and legitimacy of the ruling dynasty. ## History The character 龙 (lóng) has evolved over time in Chinese writing. Its earliest form, found in oracle bone script, depicted a dragon with a long, serpentine body. As writing systems developed, the character became more stylized and standardized in bronze inscriptions, featuring clearer outlines and more defined features. The seal script introduced a more abstract representation, simplifying the strokes and details of the dragon shape. In the clerical script, which emerged during the Han Dynasty, the character retained its basic form but became more angular and rigid. Finally, in regular script, the character achieved a refined and balanced appearance while preserving the essential elements of the dragon shape. Throughout its evolution, 龙 (lóng) has symbolized the mythical creature known for its power, auspiciousness, and association with the emperor in Chinese culture. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[龙 ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[龙 bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[龙sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[龙 cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[龙 reg.svg]]