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藍
On'yomi
ラン
RAN
Kun'yomi
あい
ai
indigo
Details
Stroke Order
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Strokes18
Component Breakdown
藍=
艹監
grass + 監
Cultural Context
Etymology
Combines 'grass' (艹) with 'watch' (監), referring to the plant yielding indigo dye. Famous in the proverb 'indigo blue surpasses its origin.'
Symbolism
Symbolizes indigo, craftsmanship, and students surpassing teachers. Represents Japanese traditional dyeing culture and growth potential.
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
七堂伽藍
しちどうがらん
complete seven-structured temple compound; complete seven-structured temple compound
堂塔伽藍
どうとうがらん
religious buildings (temples, shrines, pagodas, etc.); religious buildings (temples, shrines, pagodas, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 藍 mean in Japanese?
藍 means indigo.
How do you read 藍?
On'yomi: ラン (RAN). Kun'yomi: あい (ai).
How many strokes does 藍 have?
藍 has 18 strokes. Its radical is 艸 (grass).
Is 藍 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 藍 (indigo) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.