noun HSK 3
Traditional 獅子
lion
Meaning
狮子 refers to the large wild cat known as a lion. In Chinese culture, lions are symbols of power, strength, and protection, commonly seen as guardian statues outside temples and buildings. The word combines 狮 (lion) with the diminutive suffix 子.
Usage
This is the standard word for lion in everyday Mandarin. It's used in both literal contexts (referring to the actual animal) and figurative expressions. The traditional lion dance (舞狮) is a common cultural reference. In compound words, 狮 alone may be used.
Examples
- 01动物园里的狮子正在睡觉。.The lion in the zoo is sleeping.
- 02他的星座是狮子座。.His zodiac sign is Leo.
Characters
Measure words
- 只一只狮子
- 头三头狮子
Common collocations
- 狮子座Leo (zodiac sign)
- 舞狮lion dance
- 石狮子stone lion statue
- 母狮子lioness
Origin
The character 狮 (獅 in traditional) contains the dog radical 犭, as many animal names do. 子 is a common diminutive or noun suffix in Chinese, often making animal names feel more familiar or concrete.