adjective / noun HSK 4
male (animal) · grand · powerful · mighty · hero
Meaning
雄 refers to the male of a species (especially animals) and carries connotations of strength, power, and dominance. It's the opposite of 雌 (female). Extended metaphorically, it describes anything grand, powerful, or heroic in nature.
Usage
Most commonly used in compounds rather than standalone. For animals, pair with 雌 to distinguish gender (雄性/雌性). In literary or formal contexts, it describes grandeur or heroism. Common in historical, military, or nature-related vocabulary.
Examples
- 01这只雄孔雀的羽毛非常漂亮。.This male peacock's feathers are very beautiful.
- 02他从小就有雄心壮志，想成为科学家。, .He has had great ambitions since childhood, wanting to become a scientist.
Common collocations
- 雄性male (biological sex)
- 雄心great ambition
- 雄鸡rooster
- 雄狮male lion
Antonyms
Origin
The character 雄 is a phonosemantic compound. The left radical 隹 (short-tailed bird) provides semantic context, while the right component 厷 contributes to pronunciation. Originally referred to male birds, later extended to all male animals and metaphorical strength.