Details
Description
Firefly - the insect that carries its own light. A summer sight, and brief by nature.
Stroke Order
Cultural Context
Etymology
Composed of fire, cover, and insect. Insect with fire.
Symbolism
Firefly light, fluorescence, summer insect. Represents glowing insect.
Related Culture & Scenes
- — Lightning flashing
Seasonal
Early summer tradition June to July. Firefly catching is traditional Japanese summer activity. Summer seasonal word in haiku.
Words & Expressions
Words written with 蛍
Proverbs & Idioms
蛍の光窓の雪
ほたるのひかりまどのゆき
By firefly light and window snow
Studying diligently despite hardship
Anime & Manga
蛍火の杜へ
Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light
A well-known work with 蛍 in its Japanese title.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 蛍 mean in Japanese?
蛍 means lightning-bug, firefly. Firefly - the insect that carries its own light. A summer sight, and brief by nature.
How do you read 蛍?
On'yomi: ケイ (KEI). Kun'yomi: ほたる (hotaru).
How many strokes does 蛍 have?
蛍 has 11 strokes. Its radical is 虫 (insect).
Is 蛍 a good kanji for a tattoo?
蛍 is one of the kanji most often chosen for tattoos. It means lightning-bug, firefly. Read the full meaning and cultural background on this page first — some popular choices are deliberately dark.