喜 (xǐ) — Joy
Single-character Chinese tattoo · verified meaning · cheerful & minimalist friendly
Browse all 喜 glyphs ↗Meaning & Nuance
喜 (xǐ) means “joy, delight, and happy occasions.” It is the character pasted on weddings, birthdays, and New Year celebrations — double 喜 (囍) is the classic wedding symbol. As a tattoo it radiates celebration. It is more about occasion and gladness than 乐 (lè, abiding happiness); 喜 is the burst of joy at an event.
Pronunciation & Form
Pinyin: xǐ — a third tone (dipping), the pitch falls then rises. It is a bright, lifting syllable matching a word about happiness.
Common Words & Phrases
Why Get 喜 as a Tattoo
喜 is a tattoo of celebration — chosen by people who want to mark a happy chapter: a wedding, a birth, a fresh start. A single 喜 is instantly read as “joy” and carries only positive, festive energy in Chinese culture. It is compact and cheerful, a bright counterpoint to more solemn single-character tattoos.
Tattoo Style & Placement
Best fits: fine-line, red-ink, or playful brush styles that match its cheer. Placements: wrist, collarbone, forearm, or behind the ear. A small 喜 works as a daily mood-lifter; the doubled 囍 is an option if you specifically want a marriage symbol. Keep it light and legible.
Authenticity & Cultural Note
Always confirm the character with a native speaker or linguist before inking. 喜 is sometimes confused with 嘻 (xī, laughing sound) or 善 (shàn, kindness). A verified 喜 guarantees your tattoo reads as “joy.” handmade.ink meanings are checked by native Chinese linguists so your ink says exactly what you intend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Chinese character 喜 mean?
How do you pronounce 喜?
Is 喜 a good tattoo for happiness or a wedding?
What words use the character 喜?
What is the difference between 喜 and 乐?
What does the doubled 囍 mean?