露 (lù) — Reveal

Meaning & Nuance

露 (lù) means “to reveal” or “to expose,” and also literally “dew” — the moisture that appears at dawn. It is the character in 流露 (liúlù, “to reveal feelings”) and 透露 (tòulù, “to disclose”). The dew sense gives it a tender poetic layer: truth that surfaces quietly, like morning dew. It overlaps with 显 (xiǎn, “reveal”) but 露 often carries the natural, uncovered quality of something shown without effort.

Pronunciation & Form

Pinyin: lù — a fourth-tone (sharp falling) syllable, dropping clearly. Structure: topped by the rain radical 雨 (yǔ, “rain”), with a complex lower portion; fittingly, what “falls from the sky” and becomes visible is dew.

Common Words & Phrases

Why Get 露 as a Tattoo

露 is a tattoo about quiet truth — feelings or identity revealed naturally, like dew at first light. It suits someone who values honesty expressed gently rather than loudly. The character is graceful and a little uncommon, giving the tattoo a poetic, intimate feel.

Tattoo Style & Placement

Best fits: fine-line, botanical, or soft watercolor styles, ideally with a tiny dew-drop or leaf accent. 露 has many strokes, so give it a medium size on the forearm, shoulder, or ribs to keep every component legible as skin ages.

Authenticity & Cultural Note

Always confirm the character with a native speaker or linguist before inking. 露 (lù) is also read lòu in some spoken words (e.g. 露面, lòumiàn), and it is confused with 路 (lù, “road”) by sound — a native-verified 露 keeps your tattoo as “reveal/dew.” handmade.ink meanings are checked by native Chinese linguists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Characters