鼎 dǐng cauldron
cauldron; three-legged bronze cauldron
How it came to be
A big bronze pot standing on three legs, with two handles on top. Offerings were cooked in it, and owning one showed power.
How it is used
- An ancient three-legged bronze cauldron - a symbol of state power and weight. Figuratively 'grand/prominent': 大名鼎鼎 (dàmíng-dǐngdǐng) illustrious, of great renown - 大名鼎鼎的教授 (dàmíng-dǐngdǐng de jiàoshòu) a hugely famous professor.
- Other live compounds: 鼎盛 (dǐngshèng) at the height of prosperity, 一言九鼎 (yìyán-jiǔdǐng) one's word carries enormous weight, 鼎力相助 (dǐnglì xiāngzhù) to give all-out (weighty) help.
- Carries gravity and prestige; formal register.