Meaning
丝绸 refers to silk fabric, one of China's most famous historical exports and cultural treasures. It is made from the fibers produced by silkworms and has been prized for thousands of years for its smooth texture, luxurious appearance, and association with wealth and refinement.
Usage
This word is commonly used when discussing textiles, clothing materials, or traditional Chinese culture. It appears frequently in contexts related to the ancient Silk Road (丝绸之路) and Chinese handicrafts. The term carries cultural significance beyond just the material itself, often evoking images of Chinese heritage and craftsmanship.
Examples
- 01这条围巾是用真丝绸做的，摸起来非常柔软。, .This scarf is made of genuine silk and feels very soft to the touch.
- 02古代的丝绸之路促进了东西方文化的交流。.The ancient Silk Road promoted cultural exchange between East and West.
Characters
Measure words
- 匹一匹丝绸
- 件一件丝绸衣服
Common collocations
- 丝绸之路Silk Road
- 丝绸制品silk products
- 真丝绸genuine silk
- 丝绸衣服silk clothing
Origin
Both characters relate to silk production. 丝 (sī) is one of the oldest Chinese characters for silk thread, while 绸 (chóu) specifically refers to woven silk cloth. Together they form a compound emphasizing the complete silk textile.