Definition

Noun: 1. A musical stone: An ancient percussion instrument, typically made of stone (like jade) or bronze, shaped like a curved, thick slab. When struck, it produces a clear, resonant, and melodious sound. Historically used in ceremonial and court music. 2. A pendant (for children): A piece of jewelry, usually made of gold or silver, shaped like the musical instrument (a curved plaque). It is traditionally worn by children on a necklace over the chest, often as a protective amulet or a symbol of good fortune.

Usage Examples

• As a musical instrument:
  • Trong buổi lễ tế, âm thanh của chiếc khánh bằng ngọc vang lên trang trọng. (During the ceremonial ritual, the sound of the jade musical stone resonated solemnly.)
  • Bảo tàng trưng bày một bộ khánh đá cổ rất quý hiếm. (The museum displays a very rare set of ancient stone chimes.)
• As a piece of jewelry:
  • Bà ngoại tặng em bé chiếc khánh vàng để đeo cho khỏe mạnh. (The grandmother gave the baby a gold pendant to wear for good health.)
  • Chiếc khánh bạc hình chữ "Thọ" là món quà đầy ý nghĩa. (The silver pendant shaped like the character "Thọ" (Longevity) is a very meaningful gift.)

Advanced Usage

• Cultural/Historical Context: The is part of a family of ancient lithophones (stone instruments). It is distinct from the (bell) and (gong) in material and shape. Its sound is considered pure and sacred, often associated with rituals and the aristocracy.
• Symbolism: As jewelry, the is more than an ornament. It symbolizes blessings, protection from evil spirits, and wishes for a prosperous and healthy life for the child.

Variants and Related Words

• Biên khánh (noun): A specific set of tuned stone chimes suspended in a frame, played as a melodic instrument. This is a compound word where is a component.
• Khánh đá (noun phrase): Stone .
• Khánh đồng (noun phrase): Bronze .
• Khánh ngọc (noun phrase): Jade .

Synonyms

• For the instrument: (stone musical instrument), (stone chime). There is no perfect single-word synonym in English; "musical stone," "stone chime," or "lithophone" are descriptive translations.
• For the jewelry: (pendant), (amulet). specifically refers to the traditional curved shape.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Chuông khánh: A phrase pairing "bell" and "," often used to refer to the harmonious sounds of temple or ritual music, or metaphorically for eloquent and persuasive speech.
  • Giọng nói của ông ấy ngân vang như chuông khánh. (His voice resonates like temple bells [clear and impressive].)
• Tiếng khánh tiếng chuông: Similar to above, emphasizing resonant, beautiful sounds.

noun

1. musical stone