Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The imperial dynasty of China from 1122 to 221 BC: The Zhou Dynasty was a long-lasting Chinese dynasty known for its feudal system and significant philosophical developments.
   • Notable for the rise of Confucianism and Taoism: This period is historically crucial for the emergence and foundational development of major Chinese philosophical and religious traditions.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Zhou Dynasty is traditionally divided into the Western Zhou and Eastern Zhou periods.
  • Many classic Chinese texts were composed during the Zhou Dynasty.
  • The decline of the Zhou Dynasty led to the Warring States period.

Advanced Usage

• "The Mandate of Heaven": A key political doctrine developed during the Zhou Dynasty to justify the overthrow of the previous Shang Dynasty and subsequent rulership.
  • The concept of the Mandate of Heaven was first articulated by the Zhou.
• "Zhou ritual bronze": Refers to the sophisticated bronze vessels cast during this era, important for state rituals and as symbols of power.
  • The museum has an impressive collection of Zhou ritual bronzes.

Variants and Related Words

• Zhou (adj): Pertaining to the Zhou Dynasty.
  • Zhou archaeology, Zhou philosophy
• Eastern Zhou (proper noun): The later period of the dynasty (770–221 BC).
• Western Zhou (proper noun): The earlier period of the dynasty (c. 1046–770 BC).

Synonyms

• Zhou period: A synonym emphasizing the era.
• Dynasty of Zhou: A formal variant of the name.

Related Phrases

• "Spring and Autumn period": The first half of the Eastern Zhou period (c. 771–476 BC).
  • The "Spring and Autumn Annals" is a historical record from the Spring and Autumn period of the Zhou Dynasty.
• "Warring States period": The second half of the Eastern Zhou period (c. 475–221 BC) characterized by conflict.
  • The Warring States period preceded the Qin unification that ended the Zhou Dynasty.

Noun

1. the imperial dynasty of China from 1122 to 221 BC; notable for the rise of Confucianism and Taoism