尉
How to Say
How to Write
Meaning: military officer
💡 Think 'wait' with a uniform: an officer says 'Wait!' to soldiers.
Compounds
Character Story & Explanation
The character 尉 (wèi) originally depicted a hand pressing a seal onto cloth, symbolizing authority. It evolved to mean 'military officer,' especially in ancient China. Today, it appears in ranks like 上尉 (captain) and 少尉 (second lieutenant). Its radical 寸 (cun) represents 'hand' or 'measure,' hinting at control and rank.
Example Sentences
Common Compounds
Similar Characters — Don't Mix These Up
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