How to write 蟾

蟾 [chán] Noun 1. Toad (referring to a type of amphibian which has numerous bumps on its skin, contains poison glands, and resembles a frog. It feeds on insects, snails, etc., and is beneficial to agriculture. Commonly known as "癞蛤蟆" (làiháma) or "疥蛤蟆" (jièháma); in ancient times referred to as "蟾诸" (chánzhū). Shortened as "蟾", for example, "蟾酥" (white in color, used in medicine). Also refers to "蟾宫" (the moon), "蟾桂" (cinnamon osmanthus), "蟾轮" (full moon), "蟾辉", "蟾光", and "蟾魄" (all referring to moonlight). The phrase "蟾宫折桂" is an old metaphor for achieving success in the imperial examination. 2. In legend, it is said that the moon has a toad, hence the moon is referred to as "蟾". Examples: - 蟾壶 (chán hú) - an ancient timekeeping device shaped like a toad. - 蟾兔 (chán tù) - referring to the toad and the jade rabbit. 3. In mythology, the moon is said to have a toad, which is why the moon is called "蟾". Examples: - 蟾桂 (chán guì) - referring to the toad and the red osmanthus from mythology that resides on the moon. - 蟾宫 (chán gōng) - refers to the palaces on the moon.