zoeng1 nou5樟腦樟脑
Jyutpingzoeng1 nou5
Yalejēung nóuh
Definition
Camphor; a white, waxy, translucent crystalline solid used as an insect repellent.
colloquialhomeother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the traditional white, pungent-smelling blocks or balls used to repel moths and silverfish in closets. Modern households often use synthetic alternatives like paradichlorobenzene, but the term remains the standard way to describe any such mothball or insect-repellent block regardless of the actual chemical composition.
Measure word
nap1粒nāpExamples
I put some camphor in the wardrobe, it smells really strong.
Related words
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
