Chinese character · HSK 4
伞 (sǎn) — “umbrella”
The simplified character is a direct pictograph of an open umbrella, with the top representing the canopy, the middle strokes representing the ribs, and the vertical line acting as the handle.
How to remember 伞
The wide canopy (人) and wooden ribs perfectly form the shape of an open umbrella.
Inside the character
- 人 (person) — meaning component. The standalone person form — often marks people, humanity, or human action.
- 十 (ten) — meaning component. A simple cross — used for counting, completeness, or as a structural anchor.
Where 伞 comes from
The traditional character '傘' depicted four little '人' (people) taking shelter underneath a large canopy. The simplified form '伞' elegantly strips the image down to the bare mechanical frame of a single umbrella.
Words that use 伞
| Word | Pinyin | Meaning | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 雨伞 | yǔ sǎn | umbrella | HSK 1 |
| 降落伞 | jiàng luò sǎn | parachute | HSK 4 |
| 撑伞 | chēng sǎn | to open / hold up an umbrella | HSK 6 |
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More characters: 供 (gòng / gōng, to offer / to provide) · 具 (jù, tool / device) · 册 (cè, book / volume) — or browse the full character library.