Details
Description
Cicada - the sound of Japanese summer, and a standing image of a life that is loud and short.
Stroke Order
Cultural Context
Etymology
The insect radical with a phonetic element, for the cicada.
Symbolism
The voice of high summer. Its cast-off shell is called utsusemi, the empty cicada, and stands for how little of a life remains. In China a jade cicada was placed in the mouth of the dead as a sign of return.
Poetry
閑さや岩にしみ入る蝉の声
Such stillness — the cry of the cicadas sinking into the rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 蝉 mean in Japanese?
蝉 means cicada. Cicada - the sound of Japanese summer, and a standing image of a life that is loud and short.
How do you read 蝉?
On'yomi: セン、ゼン (SEN, ZEN). Kun'yomi: せみ (semi).
How many strokes does 蝉 have?
蝉 has 15 strokes. Its radical is 虫 (insect).
Is 蝉 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Be careful. 蝉 can carry meanings or readings you may not intend. Check the cultural context on this page before committing to a tattoo.
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