曌
How to Say
How to Write
Meaning: name invented for herself by Tang empress Wu Zetian 武則天
💡 Think: 'Sun and moon under sky'—a bright empress's self-made name.
Compounds
Character Story & Explanation
曌 (zhào) is a unique Chinese character created by Empress Wu Zetian (武则天) of the Tang Dynasty for her own name. It combines '日' (sun) and '月' (moon) under '空' (sky), symbolizing brightness illuminating the heavens. The character reflects Wu Zetian's claim to rule as a female emperor, with power as vast as the sun and moon. Today, it is rarely used except in historical contexts, representing a bold assertion of imperial authority and gender defiance.
Example Sentences
Common Compounds
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