This site will be taken down March 31st, 2026.

This was not an easy decision to make. For the last couple years, I have been struggling to find motivation for this site and to keep up with basic maintenance and security updates. With the rise of AI and more sophisticated tools, the usefulness of sites like this is questionable and traffic has nose-dived. I just don't have it in me to keep doing this. Thank you all for 10 years of support!

Zach

川蝉

翡翠、 魚狗

Readings

Kana: かわせみ、ひすい、しょうびん、カワセミ
Romaji: kawasemi, hisui, shōbin, kawasemi
Kana
Romaji

Definitions

1

kingfisher (esp. the common kingfisher, Alcedo atthis)

2

jade (gem)

See also: 硬玉 軟玉 ジェイド 翡翠色
3

beautiful lustrous colour similar to that of the kingfisher's feathers

Kanji

Readings: セン、 かわ
Meanings: stream, river, river or three-stroke river radical (no. 47)
Readings: セン、 ゼン、 せみ
Meaning: cicada
Reading: 
Meaning: kingfisher
Readings: スイ、 かわせみ、 みどり
Meanings: green, kingfisher
Readings: ギョ、 うお、 さかな、 -ざかな
Meaning: fish
Readings: ク、 コウ、 いぬ
Meanings: puppy, dog