📖 Meaning
In classical Chinese physiognomy, this term describes the most noble and auspicious facial appearance. '日角' refers to a prominent forehead ridge resembling the sun, while '偃月' describes forehead corners shaped like a half-moon. It was considered the supreme physiognomic sign, believed to indicate an imperial-level destiny.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the 'Hou Han Ji' (后汉纪) by Yuan Hong of the Jin Dynasty. When the future Empress Liang was selected to enter the imperial harem, a physiognomist named Mao Tong saw her face and exclaimed in astonishment that this was the so-called '日角偃月'—the most noble physiognomy he had ever witnessed. She was thereupon elevated to the rank of noble consort and later became empress. The story illustrates how ancient court physiognomists interpreted distinctive facial features as omens of supreme destiny.
💡 Example Usage
史载此人日角偃月，天生贵相，后果登大位。
Historical records state that this man had the supremely noble 'sun-horn and half-moon' physiognomy, and he indeed ascended to the throne.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 日角偃月
- Pinyin: rì jiǎo yǎn yuè
- Literal Translation: sun, horn, supine, moon
- Category: Status
- Characters: 4