limpid

is composed of the radical (water) and (command). originally means instructions or commands issued by a superior to a subordinate, extended to imply something that cannot be disobeyed. The forces of nature and the way of heaven are irresistible and cannot be defied, so here can be understood as referring to natural essence or inherent nature. The inherent nature of water is to be clear, limpid, and pure, therefore is used to express cool clarity, refreshing purity, or crystalline limpidity.

Vocabulary of 泠

  • 清泠 (clear and cool)

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