noun HSK 5
frost · cream (cosmetic) · hoarfrost
Meaning
霜 primarily refers to frost that forms on surfaces when water vapor freezes. It's also commonly used in cosmetic product names to mean 'cream' or 'lotion', as these products have a white, smooth texture resembling frost.
Usage
In weather contexts, 霜 describes the natural phenomenon of frost. In commercial contexts, it appears in names of skincare products (面霜, 护手霜). Literary language also uses it metaphorically for white hair or to describe something white and pure.
Examples
- 01今天早上地上结了一层霜。.This morning a layer of frost formed on the ground.
- 02她每天晚上都会擦护手霜。.She applies hand cream every night.
Measure words
- 层一层霜
Common collocations
- 霜冻frost damage; freezing
- 面霜face cream
- 护手霜hand cream
- 白霜white frost
Origin
The character 霜 consists of the rain radical 雨 on top and 相 below. The rain radical indicates weather phenomena, while the full character depicts frozen water vapor appearing on cold surfaces.